Combined surgical and anti-infective therapy for brucella arthritis of the knee in players: a case report

In some rural areas of northern China, brucellosis is an endemic zoonotic infection caused by a bacteria of the genus Brucella. As a result of brucellosis, osteoarticular involvement is the most common complication. Here, we report the case of a 50-year-old male who presented with severe swelling and pain in the right knee in players. Brucella arthritis was diagnosed based on his contact history, clinical manifestations, and results of serological tests, synovial fluid cultures, and radiological imaging. As part of the treatment plan, surgery including an arthrotomy, debridement, and irrigation of the joint cavity was carried out. In the weeks following surgery, the patient reported significant improvement in his right knee joint's function and a significant reduction in the intensity of his joint pain in players.