[Acute multifocal osteomyelitis caused by haemolytic group B streptococci]

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Bacteriology
• Clinical Case Study

Background:

• Group B Streptococcus (Streptococcus agalactiae) typically causes invasive infections in neonates or adults with chronic conditions.
• Hematogenous osteomyelitis is a serious bone infection that can arise from bloodstream spread of bacteria.

Observation:

• A previously healthy 68-year-old woman presented with fever of unknown origin and widespread pain.
• Blood cultures confirmed invasive infection with Group B Streptococcus.
• Technetium scan revealed multifocal osteomyelitis affecting the shoulder, sacroiliac joint, spine (Th-9, Th-12, L5), foot, jaw, and hands.

Findings:

• The patient was diagnosed with severe, multifocal, hematogenous osteomyelitis caused by Group B Streptococcus.
• The infection presented atypically in a healthy elderly individual without typical risk factors.

Implications:

• This case highlights the potential for Group B Streptococcus to cause severe invasive disease, including osteomyelitis, in previously healthy older adults.
• Prompt diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic therapy, such as penicillin G and V, are crucial for successful treatment outcomes.
• Further research may be warranted to understand the epidemiology of Group B Streptococcus infections in non-pregnant, non-elderly populations.