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[Periprosthetic joint infection caused by Rhodococcus equi. Case report]
Imre Sallai1, Nóra Péterfy2, Mohammad Sanatkhani3
1Ortopédiai Klinika, Semmelweis Egyetem, Általános Orvostudományi Kar Budapest, Üllői út 78/B II. emelet, 1082.
Orvosi Hetilap
|July 4, 2017
Summary
Rhodococcus equi, a rare bacterium, caused a periprosthetic joint infection in an immunocompetent patient. This case highlights its potential role in medical device infections, even without typical risk factors.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Orthopedic Surgery
Background:
- Rhodococcus equi is an opportunistic pathogen primarily affecting immunocompromised individuals.
- Periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs) are serious complications following joint replacement surgery.
- This study reports the first documented case of PJI caused by Rhodococcus equi in an immunocompetent host.
Observation:
- An 88-year-old male with a history of hip surgeries presented with fever and hip pain.
- Despite being immunocompetent, the patient had comorbidities including diabetes mellitus and stroke.
- Radiography revealed stable prosthetic components, but joint aspirate confirmed Rhodococcus equi infection.
Findings:
- The patient refused surgical intervention, opting for antibiotic therapy.
- Clinical symptoms resolved with antibiotics, although C-reactive protein levels remained elevated.
- This case demonstrates Rhodococcus equi as a causative agent in medical device-associated infections.
Implications:
- Rhodococcus equi should be considered in the differential diagnosis of PJIs, particularly in patients with relevant comorbidities.
- This case expands the understanding of Rhodococcus equi pathogenicity beyond immunocompromised populations.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms of Rhodococcus equi in device-related infections.
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