A 29-year-old man presents with progressive right knee pain and swelling after minor trauma one week ago. He is febrile at 38.7 °C and unable to bear ...

Question

A 29-year-old man presents with progressive right knee pain and swelling after minor trauma one week ago. He is febrile at 38.7 °C and unable to bear weight. Examination shows a hot, swollen knee with limited range of motion. What is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Urgent arthrocentesis for synovial fluid analysis and start empiric intravenous antibiotics for suspected septic arthritis

Answer

Order MRI knee and give NSAIDs only

Answer

Start empiric antibiotics for presumed gout without aspiration

Answer

Prescribe oral colchicine and arrange routine follow-up

Answer

Refer for elective orthopaedic review in a month

ca-mccqe1 MCQ (SBA): Septic arthritis - acute management

A 29-year-old man presents with progressive right knee pain and swelling after minor trauma one week ago. He is febrile at 38.7 °C and unable to bear weight. Examination shows a hot, swollen knee with limited range of motion. What is the most appropriate next step?