A child surrounded by farm animals with glowing joints, symbolizing brucellosis-related arthritis.

Joint Pain in Kids? What You Need to Know About Brucellosis

Elliot Brynn in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 4 min read.

"Unpasteurized dairy and animal contact can lead to unexpected arthritis in children. Learn to recognize and treat this often-overlooked infection."

Brucellosis is a zoonotic infection, meaning it spreads from animals to humans. It's caused by a bacteria called Brucella, and while relatively uncommon in many parts of the world, it remains a significant health concern in endemic areas. One of the ways brucellosis can show up, particularly in children, is through osteoarticular involvement – in simpler terms, problems with the bones and joints.

Turkey, for example, is considered an endemic region for brucellosis. This means that healthcare providers there, and in other similar regions, need to consider brucellosis when a child presents with unexplained joint pain or arthritis. The infection often stems from consuming unpasteurized milk or dairy products, or through direct contact with infected animals.

This article will explore a case series examining instances of arthritis caused by Brucella melitensis in children. By understanding how brucellosis can manifest as arthritis, parents and healthcare providers can be more vigilant in recognizing and addressing this potential infection early on.

Brucellosis and Joint Pain: What are the Symptoms?

A child surrounded by farm animals with glowing joints, symbolizing brucellosis-related arthritis.

After the Brucella bacteria enters the body, it multiplies and spreads through the bloodstream, potentially affecting various organs and tissues. While the symptoms can be nonspecific, joint and muscle pain are prominent indicators. This is especially true in children, where brucellosis can sometimes be mistaken for other, more common causes of arthritis.

In a study of 12 children, researchers examined cases of arthritis caused by Brucella melitensis. The key findings revealed several common symptoms:

Arthralgia (joint pain): Present in all cases.
Fever: Observed in most cases (8 out of 12).
Hip Involvement: Most common site of arthritis (9 cases).
Other Joints: Sacroiliac joint (2 cases), knee (1 case).

It's important to note that while fever and joint pain are common, other symptoms like hepatomegaly (enlarged liver), splenomegaly (enlarged spleen), and changes in white blood cell counts can also occur. In regions where brucellosis is prevalent, doctors should consider it as a possible cause when evaluating a child with fever and joint pain, especially if there's a history of consuming unpasteurized dairy or contact with livestock.

Early Detection is Key

Brucellosis-related arthritis can sometimes lead to serious complications, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial. If a child presents with persistent joint pain, especially accompanied by fever and a history of potential exposure, brucellosis should be considered, particularly in endemic regions.

Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to detect Brucella antibodies or, in some cases, isolating the bacteria from a sterile body fluid. Treatment usually involves a combination of antibiotics, with the duration of treatment varying depending on the severity and location of the infection.

By increasing awareness of brucellosis as a potential cause of arthritis in children, we can ensure that those affected receive timely and effective treatment, minimizing the risk of long-term complications. Parents should be vigilant about sources of dairy and animal exposure.

About this Article -

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Everything You Need To Know

How does brucellosis lead to joint pain in children?

Brucellosis, caused by the Brucella bacteria, is transmitted from animals to humans and can manifest as joint pain and arthritis, particularly in children. It's a zoonotic infection, meaning it spreads from animals to humans, and is more prevalent in endemic regions like Turkey. The infection often results from consuming unpasteurized dairy products or direct contact with infected animals. Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent serious complications.

What are the main symptoms of brucellosis-related arthritis in children?

Key indicators include arthralgia (joint pain), which was present in all studied cases, and fever, observed in most cases. Hip involvement was the most common site of arthritis. Other symptoms, though less frequent, can include sacroiliac joint or knee involvement, hepatomegaly (enlarged liver), splenomegaly (enlarged spleen), and changes in white blood cell counts. The nonspecific nature of symptoms means brucellosis can be mistaken for other causes of arthritis, emphasizing the need for vigilance, especially where the disease is common.

Can brucellosis-related arthritis cause long-term problems for children?

Yes, if left untreated, brucellosis-related arthritis can lead to serious complications. While the specific complications aren't detailed, the emphasis on early diagnosis and treatment underscores the potential for long-term damage or systemic issues. Prompt intervention is crucial to managing the infection and minimizing its impact on a child's health and well-being.

What is the significance of Brucella melitensis in understanding arthritis in children?

The case series specifically examined instances of arthritis caused by Brucella melitensis in children. The findings highlight the importance of considering brucellosis in children presenting with joint pain, particularly in endemic regions, to facilitate early diagnosis and prevent potential complications. The cases underscores the need for awareness and vigilance in areas where brucellosis is prevalent.

What is the process by which Brucella causes joint problems after someone is exposed?

The route of transmission to humans typically involves consuming unpasteurized dairy products or through direct contact with infected animals. The Brucella bacteria then enters the body, multiplies, and spreads through the bloodstream, affecting various organs and tissues, including the joints. While the specific mechanisms by which Brucella causes arthritis aren't detailed, the infection triggers inflammation and pain in the affected joints.