Vertebral osteomyelitis secondary to Streptococcus cristatus infection

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology
• Orthopedics

Background:

• Discitis and osteomyelitis are serious spinal infections.
• Bacterial causes are typically common pathogens.
• Streptococcus cristatus is an uncommon cause of infection.

Observation:

• A 66-year-old male presented with low back pain, diagnosed with discitis and osteomyelitis.
• Biopsy and PCR testing identified Streptococcus cristatus as the causative agent.
• This bacterium rarely infects bone or joint tissues.

Findings:

• Vertebral osteomyelitis can be caused by rare bacteria like Streptococcus cristatus.
• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is effective in identifying unusual pathogens.
• Treatment involves targeted, long-term antibiotics (minimum 6 weeks) and potentially surgery.

Implications:

• This case expands the known spectrum of vertebral osteomyelitis pathogens.
• Highlights the importance of PCR in diagnosing infections with rare organisms.
• Informs clinical management strategies for uncommon spinal infections.