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Difficulties in diagnosing Brucella spondylitis
M Jensenius1, E A Høiby, D Berild
1Department of Internal Medicine, Aker University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.
Scandinavian Journal of Infectious Diseases
|August 26, 2000
Summary
Brucella spondylitis, a spinal infection, can be challenging to diagnose. This case highlights difficulties in identifying Brucella, leading to delayed treatment in an asylum seeker.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease caused by Brucella species.
- Spondylitis, an infection of the spine, is a potential complication of brucellosis.
- Timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial for favorable outcomes.
Observation:
- A 28-year-old male asylum seeker presented with symptoms suggestive of spinal infection.
- The patient had recently arrived from Turkey to Norway.
- Initial microbiological investigations presented challenges in identifying the causative agent.
Findings:
- Culture-proven Brucella spondylitis was diagnosed.
- The microorganism exhibited rapid in vitro growth.
- Biochemical gallery strip tests led to misidentification of the Brucella species.
- These diagnostic hurdles resulted in a delayed diagnosis.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering Brucellosis in endemic populations presenting with spondylitis.
- Diagnostic challenges associated with Brucella require awareness among clinical microbiologists and infectious disease specialists.
- Improved diagnostic strategies may be needed to expedite the identification of Brucella in clinical settings.
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