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Septic bursitis — ABEM Board MCQ

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ModerateMusculoskeletal/Orthopedic emergenciesSeptic bursitisABEM Board

A 46-year-old carpenter arrives with elbow swelling and pain. Triage acuity is ESI 4; T 100.9 F, BP 134/80 mm Hg, HR 96/min. He has a fluctuant warm olecranon swelling with overlying abrasion, but elbow range of motion is nearly full. There is no joint effusion. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: A — Septic olecranon bursitis

Localized inflamed olecranon bursa with preserved joint range of motion suggests septic bursitis rather than septic arthritis.

Reference: IDSA skin and soft tissue infection guidance