Spondylodiscitis due to Aerococcus urinae: a first report

L Astudillo1, L Sailler, L Porte

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Purpan, 1 place du Dr Baylac, 31059 Toulouse, France. astudillo.l@chu-toulouse.fr

Insights

Aerococcus urinae, an uncommon urinary tract pathogen, rarely causes severe infections. This report details the first documented case of Aerococcus urinae spondylodiscitis in an elderly patient.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology
  • Clinical Medicine

Background:

  • Aerococcus urinae is an uncommon cause of urinary tract infections, primarily affecting elderly individuals with predisposing factors.
  • Severe infections are rare, with only 14 reported cases of Aerococcus urinae endocarditis.
  • Limited data exists on invasive infections beyond endocarditis.

Observation:

  • This study presents the first reported case of spondylodiscitis caused by Aerococcus urinae.
  • The affected patient was elderly and had underlying predisposing conditions.
  • The infection involved the spine and intervertebral discs.

Findings:

  • The patient received a 4-week course of amoxicillin and clindamycin.
  • Following the initial treatment, a 5-month course of amoxicillin alone was administered.
  • The patient showed a positive response to the antibiotic therapy.

Implications:

  • This case expands the spectrum of known severe infections caused by Aerococcus urinae.
  • It highlights the importance of considering Aerococcus urinae in elderly patients with spondylodiscitis, especially with a history of urinary tract infections.
  • Effective treatment regimens involving amoxicillin and clindamycin can be utilized for this rare condition.

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