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Corynebacterium prosthetic joint infection

Charles Cazanave1, Kerryl E Greenwood-Quaintance, Arlen D Hanssen

  • 1Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA.

Journal of Clinical Microbiology
|February 17, 2012
PubMed

Insights

A new PCR assay rapidly identifies common Corynebacterium species, including those causing prosthetic joint infection (PJI). This tool aids in diagnosing PJI and differentiating antibiotic-resistant strains.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Molecular Diagnostics
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Accurate identification of Corynebacterium species is crucial for clinical management.
  • Corynebacterium species are implicated in prosthetic joint infections (PJI), yet data remain limited.
  • Commonly implicated species include C. amycolatum, C. aurimucosum, C. jeikeium, and C. striatum.

Observation:

  • A novel, rapid PCR assay was developed to detect common human Corynebacterium species.
  • The assay targets a polyphosphate kinase gene identified through whole-genome sequencing.
  • It differentiates antibiotic-resistant species like C. jeikeium and C. urealyticum.

Findings:

  • The assay successfully detected clinically relevant Corynebacterium species in various human isolates.
  • All Corynebacterium isolates specifically associated with PJI were accurately identified.
  • The study reports the first documented case of prosthetic joint infection caused by C. simulans.

Implications:

  • This PCR assay offers a rapid and accurate diagnostic tool for Corynebacterium identification in clinical settings.
  • It can improve the diagnosis and management of prosthetic joint infections.
  • The assay's ability to differentiate antibiotic-resistant strains is vital for treatment decisions.

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