From the Research
White blood cell count may be elevated in bursitis, particularly in cases of septic (infectious) bursitis, as evidenced by a study published in the American Family Physician in 2017 1. In septic bursitis, which is commonly caused by bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus, the body responds to the infection by increasing white blood cell production, leading to an elevated count in blood tests. However, in non-infectious bursitis (which is more common), white blood cell counts typically remain within normal range. The distinction is important because septic bursitis requires antibiotic treatment, while non-infectious bursitis is managed with rest, ice, compression, and anti-inflammatory medications. Some key points to consider in diagnosing and managing bursitis include:
- Fever, significant redness, and intense pain may indicate septic rather than non-infectious bursitis
- A fluid aspiration from the affected bursa can be performed to check for infection, with a white blood cell count above 2,000 cells/mm³ in the aspirate suggesting infection, as noted in a case report published in The Journal of Emergency Medicine in 2009 2
- The most frequently involved sites are the olecranon and prepatellar bursae, with Staphylococcus aureus being the most common pathogen, as reported in a study published in The Journal of Rheumatology in 1987 3
- Early recognition, prompt therapy, and preventive measures are necessary to reduce the morbidity of septic bursitis, as emphasized in a study published in Annals of Internal Medicine in 1978 4
- A bactericidal agent against penicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus is the drug of choice for treating septic bursitis, as recommended in a study published in Archives of Internal Medicine in 1979 5