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Facet joint septic arthritis due to community acquired methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) - A case
Rajesh Purushothaman1, Jojo Inassi1, Anwar Marthya2
1Department of Orthopaedics, Medical College, Calicut, 673009, India.
Abstract:
Septic arthritis of facet joint (SAFJ) is extremely rare. Only about sixty cases have been reported so far. A single case of SAFJ in a series of 491 cases of spinal infections was first reported by David-Chaussé in 1981. A case report of SAFJ was published by Halpin in 1987. With the growing availability and use of MRI, more and more cases are being reported. The most common organism that causes SAFJ is Staphylococcus aureus. We are reporting a case of SAFJ caused by community acquired, methicillin resistant S aureus (MRSA) successfully treated by Linezolid.
Insights
Septic arthritis of the facet joint (SAFJ) is rare, often caused by Staphylococcus aureus. This case highlights successful treatment of community-acquired methicillin-resistant S aureus (MRSA) SAFJ using Linezolid.
Area of Science:
- Spinal infections
- Rheumatology
- Infectious diseases
Background:
- Septic arthritis of the facet joint (SAFJ) is an exceptionally rare condition, with limited documented cases.
- Historically, only about sixty cases have been reported, with initial reports dating back to 1981.
- Increased utilization of MRI has led to more frequent diagnoses of SAFJ.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of septic arthritis of the facet joint (SAFJ).
- To highlight the causative organism, community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).
- To present a successful treatment strategy using Linezolid.
Main Methods:
- Case report detailing a patient diagnosed with SAFJ.
- Identification of Staphylococcus aureus as the causative pathogen.
- Treatment administered with the antibiotic Linezolid.
Main Results:
- The patient presented with SAFJ caused by community-acquired MRSA.
- Successful treatment outcome was achieved with Linezolid therapy.
- This case adds to the limited literature on SAFJ, particularly those caused by MRSA.
Conclusions:
- Septic arthritis of the facet joint (SAFJ) is a rare but significant spinal infection.
- Community-acquired MRSA can be an etiological agent for SAFJ.
- Linezolid demonstrates efficacy in treating MRSA-induced SAFJ.
