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An uncommon case of native joint septic arthritis by Parvimonas micra
Hassam Ali1, Washma Amir2, Nicole L Bolick1
1Department of Internal Medicine, East Carolina University/Vidant Medical Center, Greenville, NC, USA.
Anaerobe
|December 21, 2020
Abstract:
Parvimonas micra is an anaerobic, Gram-positive coccus found in the oral cavity and gastrointestinal tract. We report a case of a 77-year-old male with right knee pain after a recent dental procedure and fall. Arthrocentesis was notable for Parvimonas micra which was successfully treated with metronidazole.
Insights
Parvimonas micra, an oral bacterium, can cause knee joint infections. This case highlights successful treatment of Parvimonas micra septic arthritis with metronidazole in an elderly patient.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Case Study
Background:
- Parvimonas micra is an anaerobic, Gram-positive coccus commonly residing in the oral cavity and gastrointestinal tract.
- While typically commensal, opportunistic infections can occur, particularly in immunocompromised individuals or following invasive procedures.
Observation:
- A 77-year-old male presented with acute right knee pain.
- The patient had a recent history of a dental procedure and a fall, suggesting potential inoculation routes.
- Arthrocentesis of the knee joint revealed the presence of Parvimonas micra.
Findings:
- Microscopic and potentially culture-based identification confirmed Parvimonas micra as the causative agent of septic arthritis.
- The patient's knee infection was successfully treated with the antibiotic metronidazole.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for oral bacteria like Parvimonas micra to cause deep-seated infections, such as septic arthritis.
- Prompt diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic therapy, including metronidazole, are crucial for favorable outcomes in Parvimonas micra infections.
- Highlights the importance of considering oral flora in non-oral infections, especially post-procedural or post-traumatic cases.
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