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Tuesday, November 10, 2009
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Joint swelling

The structure of a joint
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


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).
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