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Updated: Jul 7, 2026

Posterior Approach for Debridement of the Psoas Abscess
Published on: March 2, 2020
Primary psoas abscess due to Streptococcus milleri
Nitin B Bagul1, Abeywardana M S Abeysekara, Sabu Jacob
1Department of Surgery, University Hospital of North Tees, Stockton, UK. drnitinbb@gmail.com
Abstract:
Primary Psoas abscess (PPA) is an infrequent clinical entity with obscure pathogenesis and vague clinical presentation. High index of clinical suspicion is required for the diagnosis of psoas abscess. We also emphasises the importance of bacteriological confirmation of microorganism involved, although Staphylococcus aureus remains the commonest pathogen. We report an extremely rare case of PPA caused by Streptococcus milleri. Only one case has been reported in literature so far.
Insights
Primary psoas abscess (PPA) is rare and difficult to diagnose. This report details an extremely rare PPA case caused by Streptococcus milleri, highlighting the need for bacteriological confirmation.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Primary psoas abscess (PPA) presents diagnostic challenges due to its rarity and non-specific symptoms.
- Prompt diagnosis of PPA requires a high index of clinical suspicion.
- Staphylococcus aureus is the most frequently identified pathogen in PPA cases.
Observation:
- This study reports an exceptionally rare case of PPA attributed to Streptococcus milleri.
- Literature review indicates only one prior documented instance of PPA caused by this microorganism.
Findings:
- Bacteriological confirmation is crucial for identifying the causative agent in PPA.
- Streptococcus milleri is an uncommon pathogen responsible for PPA.
Implications:
- This case expands the known spectrum of pathogens causing PPA.
- Highlights the importance of considering diverse microbial agents in PPA diagnosis.
- Underscores the necessity of comprehensive microbiological investigations for effective PPA management.
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