Rabbit model of septic arthritis.

Eighty-five rabbits were injected in one knee with Staphylococcus aureus in order to study the time-related changes in untreated septic arthritis up to 3 months. In the synovial membrane a severe release of lysosomal enzymes was observed. The activity was mainly located in and around lining cells and leucocytes in the pannus demonstrating increasing destructive characteristics. This resulted in marginal erosion and undermining of the cartilage border visible from Day 5 continuing gradually to total joint destruction after 5 weeks. The glycosaminoglycan depletion was observed at the surface of the cartilage at Day 2 and was total after 2 weeks. Our infection model should permit comparison of different therapeutic measures.