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Pyogenic vertebral osteomyelitis caused by Prevotella intermedia
Mami Fukuoka1, Katsuhiro Aita, Yosuke Aoki
1Department of Medicine, Saga Medical School, Nabeshima, Saga 849-8501, Japan. fukuoka@post.saga-med.ac.jp
Abstract:
We describe a case of vertebral osteomyelitis caused by Prevotella intermedia, which is an extremely unusual cause of vertebral osteomyelitis. The organism was isolated from vertebral biopsies and the patient was treated successfully with intravenous ampicillin-sulbactam and clindamycin. Diagnosis and management of this condition are described, and the importance of anaerobic bacteria in the pathogenesis of vertebral osteomyelitis is discussed.
Insights
Prevotella intermedia, an unusual bacterium, caused vertebral osteomyelitis in a patient. Successful treatment involved antibiotics, highlighting the role of anaerobic bacteria in this bone infection.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Vertebral osteomyelitis is typically caused by aerobic bacteria.
- Anaerobic bacterial infections of the spine are rare but can be severe.
Observation:
- A case of vertebral osteomyelitis was identified.
- The causative agent was identified as Prevotella intermedia through vertebral biopsies.
Findings:
- Prevotella intermedia is an extremely uncommon pathogen for vertebral osteomyelitis.
- The patient achieved successful recovery with intravenous ampicillin-sulbactam and clindamycin therapy.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering anaerobic bacteria in the differential diagnosis of vertebral osteomyelitis.
- Effective antibiotic strategies are crucial for managing rare vertebral infections.