Pediatria pre prax 2/2020
Joint swelling – diagnostic algorithm
Joint swelling is one of the few visible signs of joint disease. Its sole objective presence, however, is not sufficient to determine the aetiology of joint disease. In children, it is usually, but not exclusively, caused by inflammatory processes, in particular arthritis. The correct clinical assessment of a swollen joint based on history, other symptoms and objective findings, is crucial, as it often determines the adequacy of the paediatrician’s recommendation for further orthopaedic or rheumatological evaluation.
Keywords: joint swelling, arthritis, arthropathy, child
