Definition of Fungal arthritis:

Fungal arthritis is infection of a joint by a fungus.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Fungal arthritis, also called mycotic arthritis, is a very rare condition. It can be caused by any of the invasive types of fungi. These organisms may affect bone or joint tissue. One or more joints may be affected, most often the large, weight-bearing joints, especially the knees.

Conditions that can cause fungal arthritis include:

• Blastomycosis
• Candidiasis
• Coccidioidomycosis
• Cryptococcosis
• Histoplasmosis
• Sporotrichosis

The infection sometimes occurs as a result of an infection in another organ such as the lungs, and tends to get worse very slowly. The large joints are most often affected. People with weakened immune systems who travel or live in endemic areas are more susceptible to most causes of fungal arthritis.