Septic Focus Syndrome (SFS) is rarely seen today but can still be encountered in developing countries. It was more common in days prior to antibiotics (and may reappear with bacteria that are antibiotic resistant).
Features of the septic focus syndrome:
(1) presence of joint arthralgias with aches or pains and joint stiffness
(2) presence of a chronic site of infection (septic focus)
(3) recovery after draining or removing the septic focus
A true arthritis is absent. Its presence indicates another diagnosis.
Examples may include chronic osteomyelitis, chronic lung infection, dental abscess.
The mechanism is not given but may reflect circulating immune complexes.
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