Bifocal cervical spondylodiscitis due to Citrobacter diversus

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Neurosurgery
• Urology

Background:

• Spondylodiscitis, an infection of the intervertebral disc and adjacent vertebral bodies, is uncommon.
• Citrobacter diversus is a rare cause of infection, particularly in adults.
• Transurethral prostatectomy is a common urological procedure.

Observation:

• This report details an unusual case of bifocal cervical spondylodiscitis.
• The infection was caused by Citrobacter diversus.
• The patient had undergone a transurethral prostatectomy.

Findings:

• Citrobacter diversus was identified through both urinary cultures and direct intervertebral disc puncture.
• The patient received a combination of imipenem and amikacin, followed by imipenem monotherapy.
• A satisfactory clinical recovery was achieved with the antibiotic regimen.

Implications:

• This case highlights the potential for Citrobacter diversus to cause severe infections like spondylodiscitis, even in non-immunocompromised individuals post-surgery.
• Early detection and appropriate antibiotic therapy are crucial for managing such rare infections.
• The increasing incidence of Citrobacter infections in immunocompromised patients warrants continued surveillance and research.