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Novel Diagnostics in Revision Arthroplasty: Implant Sonication and Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction
Published on: December 3, 2017
Primary meningococcal arthritis in a prosthetic knee joint
H R Vikram1, R B Buencamino, S I Aronin
1Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520-8022, USA.
The Journal of Infection
|September 8, 2001
Summary
Neisseria meningitidis can cause prosthetic joint infections, a rare complication. This case highlights successful treatment of meningococcal arthritis in a prosthetic knee, retaining the implant.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Rheumatology
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Neisseria meningitidis commonly causes meningitis and sepsis.
- Less frequent manifestations include arthritis, pharyngitis, and pneumonia.
- Prosthetic joint infections are typically caused by Staphylococcus and Streptococcus species.
Observation:
- A prosthetic knee joint infection was diagnosed in a female patient.
- Cultures identified Neisseria meningitidis as the causative agent.
- This represents the first reported case of N. meningitidis causing prosthetic joint infection.
Findings:
- The patient underwent surgical drainage of the infected prosthetic joint.
- The prosthetic knee was retained following the procedure.
- Prolonged antibiotic therapy was administered, leading to a favorable outcome.
Implications:
- Neisseria meningitidis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of prosthetic joint infections.
- Aggressive antibiotic treatment and joint debridement can lead to successful outcomes.
- Further research is needed to understand the pathogenesis and optimal management of meningococcal prosthetic joint infections.
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