Diagnosis
If infection is suggested, culture of the suppurative synovial fluid is mandatory prior to beginning definitive antimicrobial treatment. These cultures should include the following samples:
Aerobic
Anaerobic
Fungal
Acid-fast bacilli (AFB)
Atypical AFB
Diagnostic arthrocentesis is indicated if joint effusion is present with tenosynovitis, because most patients with disseminated gonococcal infection have coexistent septic arthritis.
Hematologic studies
Complete blood count (CBC)
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)
Rheumatoid factor - If rheumatoid arthritis is a consideration