Sternoarticular Septic Arthritis in Heroin Users

Abstract

SEPTIC arthritis of the sternoclavicular and sternochondral articulations, although infrequently reported,^{1 2 3} may be more common in heroin users.⁴ Four of six cases seen by us recently were in heroin users, all of whom had long-standing history of intravenous drug abuse. On admission, their temperatures ranged from normal to 38.4°C, and white-cell counts from 9900 to 16,400. Localized pain and swelling were the most common presenting features. All but one had monoarticular involvement. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the causative organism in three patients, and Staphylococcus aureus was isolated from the remaining patient. Blood culture helped establish the diagnosis in two patients.Case . . .