Joint swelling

The structure of a joint

Definition

Joint swelling is the buildup of fluid in the soft tissue surrounding the joint.

Alternative Names

Swelling of a joint

Considerations

Joint swelling may occur along with joint pain.

Common Causes

Joint swelling may be caused many different things, including:

Acute gouty arthritis (gout)
Ankylosing spondylitis
Chronic gouty arthritis
Infection
Injury
Ludwig's angina
Osteoarthritis
Pseudogout
Psoriatic arthritis
Reactive arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis
Systemic lupus erythematosus

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Joint swelling

Review Date: 08/12/2008
Reviewed By: Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).