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Updated: Jul 8, 2026
Diagnosis and Surgical Treatment of Human Brucellar Spondylodiscitis
Published on: May 23, 2021
An unusual presentation of brucellar septic arthritis involving the knee joint with extraarticular hardware: a case
Kaya Memisoglu1, Zeki Yumuk, Gür Akansel
1Kocaeli University School of Medicine, Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Kocaeli, Turkey. kayamemisoglu@yahoo.com
Abstract:
Brucellosis is a zoonotic infection with a wide spectrum of clinical presentations. We present a rare case of brucellosis with osteoarticular involvement complicated by a femoral intramedullary nail protruding the suprapatellar pouch. Although Brucella melitensis is a rare cause of brucellar septic arthritis, it should not be excluded from the list of suspected organisms in endemic areas for the disease.
Insights
Brucellosis, a zoonotic disease, can present rarely with bone and joint issues. This case highlights a femoral nail complication in brucellar septic arthritis, emphasizing Brucella melitensis as a potential cause in endemic regions.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Microbiology
Background:
- Brucellosis is a zoonotic infection with diverse clinical manifestations.
- Osteoarticular involvement is a known, though variable, presentation of brucellosis.
- Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial for favorable outcomes in brucellar infections.
Observation:
- A rare case of brucellosis with severe osteoarticular complications is presented.
- The patient experienced a femoral intramedullary nail protruding into the suprapatellar pouch.
- Brucella melitensis was identified as the causative agent, a less common cause of septic arthritis.
Findings:
- This case underscores the potential for unusual presentations of brucellosis.
- Brucellar septic arthritis can lead to significant orthopedic complications.
- Brucella melitensis, while rare, should be considered in the differential diagnosis of septic arthritis in endemic areas.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering brucellosis in patients with unexplained osteoarticular infections, especially in endemic zones.
- Suggests that orthopedic hardware may be a site for atypical brucellar infections.
- Emphasizes the need for broad microbiological investigation in complex infectious cases.
