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Pyogenic arthritis caused by Streptococcus milleri in a nonimmunocompromised host
L Mateo Soria1, X Juanola Roura, J M Nolla Solé
1Rheumatology Service, Hospital de Bellvitge Princeps d'Espanya, University of Barcelona, Spain.
The Journal of Rheumatology
|March 1, 1991
Summary
Streptococcus anginosus group bacteria can cause pyogenic arthritis, even in healthy individuals. This case highlights the importance of considering S. anginosus in joint infections, as it is often overlooked.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Pyogenic arthritis is a serious joint infection.
- The Streptococcus anginosus group (including S. anginosus and S. intermedius) is increasingly recognized as a pathogen.
- Diagnosis can be challenging due to the organism's fastidious nature and varied presentations.
Observation:
- A case of pyogenic arthritis in a non-immunocompromised host is presented.
- The causative agent was identified as Streptococcus milleri (S. anginosus).
- No other source of infection was identified, indicating the joint as the primary septic focus.
Findings:
- S. milleri is a significant cause of pyogenic infections.
- Articular infections caused by S. milleri are rarely reported.
- Difficulties in identifying S. milleri may contribute to underreporting of such cases.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider S. milleri in the differential diagnosis of pyogenic arthritis, especially in non-immunocompromised patients.
- Improved diagnostic methods may be needed to facilitate the recognition of S. milleri in joint infections.
- This case contributes to the understanding of the spectrum of diseases caused by S. milleri.
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