A 33-year-old member asked:
Why would one get an infection in an elbow a month after surgery there? also has ra and many broken bones.
2 doctor answers • 11 doctors weighed in
Dr. Larry Greenbaumanswered
Internal Medicine - rheumatology 38 years experience
Immunosupression ?: Many medications that are used to treat rheumatoid arthritis can also suppress the immune system. That increases risk of infection or decreased wound healing. Prednisone can cause these side effects and it also can cause or worsen osteoporosis and lead to increased risk of fractures.
5.8k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. John Goldmananswered
Rheumatology 56 years experience
Not due to surgery?: Uncertain if the infection was from the surgery. It may have been from another source. We know if you have rheumatoid arthritis you are at a greater risk of infection independently. It depends on the medications also. If there are broken bones we know people with RA have a great risk to develop osteoporosis which is related to an increased risk of fracture.
5.8k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Jan 15, 2015
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $39!
50% off with $15/month membership
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.