Disseminated Aspergillus flavus following septic arthritis in an immunocompetent patient: a case report

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Mycology
• Orthopedics

Background:

• Aspergillosis, a fungal infection, infrequently leads to osteomyelitis and septic arthritis.
• Aspergillus osteomyelitis presents a significant challenge, impacting both immunocompromised and immunocompetent individuals with high morbidity and mortality rates.
• Infections caused by Aspergillus flavus, particularly in the knee joint, are exceptionally rare.

Observation:

• A case of knee septic arthritis in an Indian patient caused by Aspergillus flavus is presented.
• The initial diagnosis was tuberculosis due to the prevalence of the disease, leading to delayed identification of disseminated aspergillosis.
• The patient showed no signs of being immunocompromised, complicating the diagnostic process.

Findings:

• Knee arthrotomy revealed Aspergillus flavus as the causative agent.
• The patient received antifungal therapy, resulting in complete recovery within three months.
• Disseminated aspergillosis can present with clinical and radiological features similar to tuberculosis.

Implications:

• Fungal joint infections, though uncommon, necessitate consideration in differential diagnoses to prevent severe outcomes.
• Early and accurate diagnosis of fungal infections is vital for effective management and improved patient prognosis.
• This case highlights the importance of considering rare pathogens in endemic regions, even in the absence of typical risk factors.