Analysis of the Clinical and Epidemiological Profile of Patients with Septic Arthritis in a Teaching Hospital in Western Paraná

Abstract

Introduction: Septic arthritis is a medical emergency characterized by joint inflammation mainly caused by Staphylococcus aureus, which may lead to irreversible joint destruction and death. Methodology: This was an observational, retrospective, and longitudinal study conducted at a teaching hospital in Western Paraná, Brazil, between January 2016 and December 2024. Results: Data from 103 patients were analyzed, with a predominance of males (60.2%) and a mean age of 48.8 years. The knee was the most affected joint (48.5%) and Staphylococcus aureus was the most frequently isolated microorganism (12.6%). Oxacillin was the most prescribed antibiotic (33.0%). The mean length of hospital stay was 12.3 days with 99.03% of patients being discharged, while only 0.97% died during hospitalization. Conclusion: The study revealed an epidemiological profile similar to that described in the literature, reinforcing the predominance of males and the high frequency of S. aureus. The low mortality observed highlights the importance of early treatment. Future research is needed to deepen the understanding of prognosis and management of septic arthritis in the Brazilian context.