Patients with a history of drug abuse exhibiting knee pain and fever are likely to have what type of arthritis?

Patients with a history of drug abuse who present with knee pain and fever are most likely to be experiencing septic arthritis. This condition is characterized by the rapid onset of joint pain, swelling, and systemic signs of infection, including fever. Individuals with a history of drug abuse may engage in behaviors that can lead to infections, such as intravenous drug use, which increases their risk of developing septic arthritis due to the introduction of bacteria directly into the bloodstream and subsequently to the joints.

In the context of this situation, the combination of fever, acute joint pain, and a risk factor such as drug abuse strongly points towards an infective process in the joint. Septic arthritis requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to preserve joint function and prevent complications, emphasizing the importance of recognizing this condition in patients with specific risk factors.

While the other types of arthritis mentioned can cause joint pain, they typically do not present with fever or are associated with different clinical histories. For instance, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that typically involves chronic pain and swelling in multiple joints and is not commonly associated with acute fever. Similarly, psoriatic arthritis is related to psoriasis and is less likely to present acutely with fever. Gouty arthritis can cause severe pain, usually with a specific history of