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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
PubMed

Insights

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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