Spondylodiscitis due to Aerococcus urinae and literature review

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Bacteriology
• Orthopedics

Background:

• Aerococcus urinae (AU) is a Gram-positive coccus.
• Primarily associated with urinary tract infections in males.
• Known to cause bacteremia and endocarditis.

Observation:

• Presents the first reported case of spondylodiscitis caused solely by Aerococcus urinae.
• The patient was over 65 years old.
• No local or systemic predisposing conditions were identified, apart from advanced age.

Findings:

• Demonstrates Aerococcus urinae as a causative agent of spondylodiscitis.
• Highlights the potential for AU to cause bone and joint infections in the absence of typical risk factors.
• Contributes to the limited literature on AU-induced osteomyelitis.

Implications:

• Suggests considering AU in the differential diagnosis of spondylodiscitis, especially in elderly patients.
• Underscores the importance of thorough microbiological investigation in unexplained osteomyelitis.
• Expands understanding of the clinical spectrum of Aerococcus urinae infections.