An accumulation of pus within a joint space, a serious infection that requires medical treatment.
From Greek 'arthro-' meaning joint, 'em-' meaning in, and 'pyema' meaning pus, literally describing pus collection in joints.
An arthroempyema is a medical emergency because pus-forming bacteria in a joint can rapidly destroy the cartilage that took years to develop—which is why doctors drain them immediately with sterile needles.
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