M71.129

Clinical Causes: Bacterial infection, commonly Staphylococcus aureus, entering the bursa through a skin wound or cut Repeated trauma or injury to the elbow, facilitating pathogen entry Spread of infection from nearby skin infections or boils Invasive medical procedures that involve the elbow joint Underlying immune suppression or health conditions that increase susceptibility to infections

Key Symptoms: Swelling around the elbow joint that may be warm to touch Pain or tenderness in the affected area, especially with movement Redness and possible skin discoloration over the bursa Limited range of motion in the elbow due to swelling and pain Fever and general feeling of being unwell in some cases

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis involves a combination of medical history evaluation, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. A doctor may perform aspiration of the bursa to obtain fluid samples for laboratory analysis, which can identify the presence of bacteria or other microorganisms. Imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI might be used to assess the extent of inflammation and rule out other conditions. Blood tests can reveal signs of infection or inflammation, including elevated white blood cell counts and inflammatory markers.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment strategies aim to eliminate the infection, reduce inflammation, and restore joint function. Common approaches include: - Antibiotics: Tailored to the specific pathogen identified, administered orally or intravenously. - Aspiration: Removing excess fluid from the bursa to relieve pressure and obtain samples for testing. - Rest and immobilization: Limiting movement to prevent further irritation. - Pain management: Use of over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers. - In severe or persistent cases, surgical intervention may be considered to drain abscesses or remove the affected bursa. Follow-up care is essential to monitor recovery and address any complications.