Description
Knee swelling can result from a number of conditions, including: degenerative joint disease, trauma, infection, gout, pseudogout, or an autoimmune disease such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Symptoms
Pain, instability, swelling, redness, loss of motion.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Depending on the history an X-ray may be performed. If the swelling is due to arthritis, joint fluid may be removed and tested for inflammation, crystals (including gout and pseudogout), and infection.
Tests:
X-ray
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Orthopedic Surgery, Rheumatology, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Pediatric Rheumatology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Depending on the history an X-ray may be performed. If the swelling is due to arthritis, joint fluid may be removed and tested for inflammation, crystals (including gout and pseudogout), and infection.
Tests:
X-ray
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Orthopedic Surgery, Rheumatology, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Pediatric Rheumatology
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause of the swelling but may include: immobilization, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn), other anti-inflammatory medications (such as steroids), pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and/or antibiotics. Immune-suppressing medications may be recommended for autoimmune conditions.