Septic Arthritis of the Hip Complicated by Secondary Fungal Superinfection

INTRODUCTION Fungal joint infection can lead to serious consequences for those affected. It can often be a delayed diagnosis due to initial negative organism growth or lack of clinician awareness. Treatment should be early and aggressive to prevent patient morbidity and mortality. CASE REPORT We present a case of staphylococcal septic arthritis of the native hip joint with secondary superinfection by Candida albicans in a young patient with no appreciable risk factors. We explain the complexity of a delayed diagnosis and subsequent treatment. CONCLUSION This case highlights important learning points in terms of considering secondary fungal infection in any septic arthritis patient that does not respond to conventional antimicrobial treatment.