acute suppurative arthritis [L, suppurare, to form pus] , a form of arthritis characterized by invasion of the joint space by pyogenic organisms and the formation of pus in the joint cavity. Failure to recognize and treat septic arthritis can result in morbidity and, sometimes, death. Duration of the illness is usually 4 to 6 days. It most commonly affects children from 5 to 10 years of age.
