AuthorisedTherapeutic confirmatory (Phase III)Interventional

Evaluation of the efficacy of corticosteroids in septic arthritis in adults: Randomized double-blind controlled trial [CORSAR]

The CORSAR study is investigating if a steroid medication, prednisone, can be an effective treatment for adults diagnosed with septic arthritis. Septic arthritis is a serious joint infection. Participants will either receive prednisone or a dummy pill (placebo) alongside their usual care. Researchers want to see if prednisone helps improve how well people can move and use their affected joint over a 24-week period. They will measure this using special questionnaires and by checking joint movement. This is a Phase 3 trial, meaning it's a key step in checking if the treatment works and is safe before it might be widely used.

At a glance

Status

Authorised

Phase

Therapeutic confirmatory (Phase III)

Sponsor

Assistance Publique Hopitaux De Paris

Enrolment target

200

Start

10 Feb 2026

Septic arthritis

What is this study about?

This research study, known as CORSAR, is focusing on a condition called septic arthritis. This is a severe infection inside a joint, which can be very painful and make it hard to move. The study aims to find out if adding a common steroid medication, called prednisone, to the usual treatment for septic arthritis can help patients recover better.

Participants in the study will be split into two groups. One group will receive prednisone, and the other will receive a dummy pill (called a placebo) that looks exactly like prednisone but contains no active medicine. Both groups will also receive the standard care for their infection. This is a 'double-blind' study, meaning neither the patient nor their doctor will know whether they are receiving the actual drug or the placebo. This helps make the study as fair and unbiased as possible.

The main thing the researchers want to measure is how well people can use their affected joint after 24 weeks. They will use special questionnaires to ask about pain and how easy it is to do daily activities. They will also look at other things like how much the joint can bend and straighten, any complications, how long people need antibiotics, and their general quality of life.

Key takeaways

This study explores if prednisone helps adults with septic arthritis.
Participants will receive either prednisone or a dummy pill, plus standard care.
The study lasts 24 weeks and involves regular check-ups.
It aims to measure improvements in joint function and overall recovery.
Both men and women aged 18 and over can be considered.
You won't know if you're getting the active drug or the dummy pill (placebo).

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for adults who have recently been diagnosed with septic arthritis. This means you must be at least 18 years old to be considered for participation.

Both men and women are welcome to take part in this research.

There will be other medical criteria to check if the study is right for you, which the study team will discuss in detail.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years of age or older?
Have you recently been diagnosed with septic arthritis?
Are you comfortable with the possibility of receiving a dummy pill (placebo)?
Are you able to attend regular appointments for 24 weeks?
Are you willing to discuss any other medical conditions with the study team?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you will be randomly assigned to either receive prednisone or a dummy pill for a set period, alongside your standard treatment for septic arthritis. You and your doctor won't know which one you're getting. You will have regular check-ups, which include physical examinations, measuring your joint movement, and filling out questionnaires about your pain and how well you can use your joint. The study will last for 24 weeks (about 6 months). There will also be blood tests to check inflammatory markers and sometimes X-rays of your joint. You will also be asked to keep an eye on any side effects you experience.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in a clinical trial may offer the chance to receive an experimental treatment that could potentially improve your condition. However, there's no guarantee of benefit, and prednisone can have side effects, which the study team will explain. You may also experience side effects from the standard treatment for septic arthritis. You will be closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the trial. Remember, you can choose to leave the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

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Unverified
France

Common questions

What is septic arthritis?

Septic arthritis is a serious infection inside one of your joints, which can cause pain, swelling, and make it difficult to move.

What is prednisone?

Prednisone is a type of steroid medicine that is used to reduce inflammation in the body.

Why is this study 'double-blind'?

Neither you nor your doctor will know if you're getting the actual drug or a dummy pill. This helps make the study results more reliable and fair.

How long will the study last?

If you participate, the main study period will be for 24 weeks, which is about 6 months.

Will I still get my usual treatment for septic arthritis?

Yes, all participants in the study will receive the standard treatment for septic arthritis, in addition to either prednisone or the dummy pill.