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Prosthetic Joint Infection by Streptococcus lutetiensis (Bovis) With Noncancerous Polyps and Negative Blood Cultures:
Ibrahim Shanti1, Malik Samardali1, Adamsegd I Gebremedhen1
1Internal Medicine, Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Huntington, USA.
Abstract:
Prosthetic joint infection (PJI), caused by Streptococcus bovis group (SBG), is uncommon and related to colorectal cancer. We present here a case of an 84-year-old male who had a past medical history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), congestive heart failure, pulmonary arterial hypertension, iron deficiency anemia, chronic kidney disease, diabetes mellitus, gout, hypertension, bilateral knee replacement with left knee pain and swelling. We initially suspected gout and treated him with prednisolone, but it did not relieve him. Joint aspiration revealed high WBC, predominantly neutrophils, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-identified Streptococcus lutetiensis. The patient underwent knee incision, drainage, poly exchange, and wound vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) placement. Sensitivity testing led us to treat him with ceftriaxone. Echocardiography revealed no endocarditis. A colonoscopy revealed multiple non-bleeding polyps and adenomas. After discharge, our patient completed six weeks of ceftriaxone via a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) line. At follow-up, our patient reported no complaints of fever and knee swelling.
Insights
Prosthetic joint infection (PJI) caused by Streptococcus bovis group (SBG) is rare and linked to colorectal cancer. This case highlights Streptococcus lutetiensis PJI in an 84-year-old male, successfully treated with antibiotics and surgical intervention.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Orthopedics
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Prosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a serious complication of joint replacement surgery.
- Streptococcus bovis group (SBG) is an uncommon cause of PJI, but is associated with colorectal cancer.
- This case report details a patient with multiple comorbidities and bilateral knee replacements presenting with PJI.

