[Septic arthritis].

Septic arthritis (SA) is a rare, but crucial differential diagnosis in any patient with acute arthritis and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Many chronic diseases predispose for the development of SA and poor prognosis. Reports speak of increasing rates of SA due to multiresistant bacteria, but the development in Denmark is uncertain. Diagnosis is difficult, and absence of positive microbiological findings does not disprove the diagnosis. In addition, evidence supporting one regiment of treatment over another is scarce. Thus, SA requires prompt treatment by orthopaedic specialists.