Diagnosis of an inflammation of the knee
Many things can be helpful in the diagnosis. First of all, a detailed anamnesis should be taken, in which previous illnesses and operations are discussed. In addition, a mobility test of the joint and a pain anamnesis should follow.
The examination may be followed by a joint effusion, which means that there is too much fluid that should not normally be there. In this case a knee puncture can be performed. The fluid obtained can then be examined for possible causes such as bacteria.
In addition, red and white blood cells can be determined, which can also point to the cause. In this way, even a removal of the synovial fluid without previous effusion can provide clues to the genesis. Furthermore, in the case of an inflammation in the knee, blood values can also be changed in general, which is why a blood sample is part of the diagnosis, whereby different inflammation values can be determined.
Imaging procedures such as x-rays can be used. Depending on the cause of the inflammation, X-rays can also be taken of other joints, such as the hands, feet or spine, in order to rule out various underlying diseases such as gout or rheumatism. In general, elevating or cooling the knee joint helps in the case of an acute inflammation.
In addition, analgesic and anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or diclofenac can be taken. Furthermore, anti-inflammatory drugs such as steroids can be helpful. However, it is important to note that the correct treatment of joint inflammation can only be carried out with the correct diagnosis. For example, in the case of infectious arthritis, one needs a medication against the pathogen such as antibiotics. Since a rheumatoid arthritis is caused by another basic illness, an additional therapy of the acute inflammation is necessary here.In imaging, the inflammation can be flanked by three main examination methods:
- Ultrasound of the knee
- X-ray of the knee
- MRI of the knee
