Osteomyelitis of the heel with Pasteurella pneumotropica: a case report

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Microbiology

Background:

• Osteomyelitis, a bone infection, can be polymicrobial and challenging to treat, especially in weight-bearing bones like the heel.
• Anaerobic bacteria and rare pathogens like Pasteurella pneumotropica can contribute to complex osteomyelitis cases.
• Polymicrobial anaerobic osteomyelitis of the heel presents unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.

Observation:

• A rare case of Pasteurella pneumotropica identified in a polymicrobial anaerobic osteomyelitis of the heel.
• The patient's presentation involved a complex infection requiring multidisciplinary management.
• Detailed natural history and predisposing factors were documented.

Findings:

• Surgical excision of the infected calcaneus was a critical component of treatment.
• Appropriate antibiotic therapy targeting the polymicrobial flora, including P. pneumotropica, was administered.
• Postoperative care, including a supportive heel cup, facilitated patient rehabilitation.

Implications:

• This case highlights the importance of identifying rare pathogens in polymicrobial bone infections.
• Effective management requires a combination of surgical debridement, targeted antibiotics, and supportive measures.
• Successful outcomes in complex heel osteomyelitis are achievable with comprehensive treatment strategies.