Arthritis
Alternate Names : Joint Inflammation
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Arthritis Diagnosis & Tests
A physical examination may show that fluid is collecting around the joint. (This is called an "effusion.") The joint may be tender (when it is gently pressed), and may exhibit warmth and redness, more typically in infectious arthritis and autoimmune arthritis. It may be painful or difficult to rotate the joints in some directions. (This is known as "limited range-of-motion.")
In certain autoimmune forms of arthritis, the joints may become deformed, if the disease is not treated. Such joint deformities are the hallmarks of severe, untreated rheumatoid arthritis.
Tests vary depending on the suspected cause. They may include blood or urine tests, as well as joint X-rays. In septic arthritis, joint fluid is removed from the joint with a needle and examined for the presence of infection. See the specific types of arthritis.
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