Gonococcal arthritis occurs due to an infection caused by a bacterium called Neisseria gonorrhoeae. This bacterium is sexually transmitted and caused the disease called gonorrhea. Arthritis associated with gonorrhea is called gonococcal arthritis. It occurs when this bacteria affects joints. It is characterized by fever, pain in the lower abdomen, pain in the hands and wrists, a burning sensation while urinating and pain and inflammation in the joints.

Usually, only one joint is affected. Sometimes, the pain migrated between joints. Rashes are also a common symptom of this disease. There may be raised lesions or pus filled sores. The rashes appear pink or red. It may turn purple as the condition progresses. The most common form of gonococcal arthritis affects multiple joints and is accompanied by rashes. Another form of gonococcal arthritis is called disseminated arthritis which spreads through the bloodstream to different parts of the body.

This condition spreads through sexual contact therefore, if one person has gonorrhea, the other will be at risk. Gonococcal arthritis can be diagnosed by a series of blood tests and microbiological tests. A course of antibiotics will help the body overcome the infection. Practicing safe sex and avoiding multiple sexual partners will help prevent the occurrence and spread of this disease.