The Role of Synovial Cytokines in the Diagnosis of Periprosthetic Joint Infections: Current Concepts

Am J Orthop (Belle Mead NJ). 2017 Sep/Oct;46(5):E308-E313.

Abstract

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a serious and potentially devastating complication of total joint arthroplasty. Accurate diagnosis of PJI is of utmost importance, but differentiating septic from aseptic failed total joint arthroplasty is extremely challenging, and improper management can lead to significant morbidity. The gold standard for PJI diagnosis is based on standardized laboratory and clinical criteria but relies on preoperative and intraoperative findings, which can be unreliable. Given these limitations, research has focused on new methods for diagnosing PJI. Synovial fluid inflammatory cytokines have been found to accurately diagnose PJI. In this article, we review the synovial fluid cytokines that are being used as aids in PJI diagnosis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers / metabolism
  • Cytokines / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Prosthesis-Related Infections / diagnosis*
  • Prosthesis-Related Infections / metabolism
  • Synovial Fluid / metabolism*

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • Cytokines