Which symptom is most characteristic of septic arthritis?

• A. Localized joint pain
• B. Fever
• C. Limited range of motion
• D. Joint swelling

Answer: (A)

Septic arthritis is an acute infection within a joint that causes sudden, focal inflammation. The symptom that best captures this is localized joint pain—the pain is typically severe and directly tied to the affected joint, often worsened by movement and accompanied by warmth and tenderness. Fever can occur, but it isn’t present in all cases, and joint swelling or limited range of motion are common but can arise from many other joint problems as well. Thus, the precise, localized pain in the affected joint is the most characteristic sign that points specifically to septic arthritis. Clinically, this prompts urgent evaluation with joint aspiration and appropriate antibiotics to prevent joint damage.