A definite case of spondylodiscitis caused by Streptococcus equisimilis

To shed light on the role of Streptococcus equisimilis (SE) in the pathogenesis of intervertebral disc infection, we report here a case of lumbar spondylodiscitis in a 37-year-old male caused by SE, with identification of this strain by cultures from L4-L5 lumbar disc biopsy. Intravenous therapy with penicillin and gentamycin combined with immobilization resulted in a rapid and complete recovery. The patient did not have underlying disease and showed no obvious history of exposure to animals. We conclude that SE may be responsible for both septic arthritis and spondylodiscitis.