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Staphylococcus aureus meningitis associated with pyogenic infection of the sacroiliac joint

T J Cieslak1, M G Ottolini, K M O'Neill

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, DC.

Southern Medical Journal
|October 1, 1993
PubMed

Insights

Staphylococcus aureus meningitis can arise from sacroiliac joint infections. Physicians should suspect underlying bone and joint infections in S. aureus meningitis cases without trauma.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Orthopedics
  • Neurology

Background:

  • Staphylococcus aureus meningitis is a serious infection.
  • Underlying bone, joint, and soft tissue infections are associated with S. aureus meningitis.
  • Sacroiliac joint infections (sacroiliitis) can be difficult to diagnose.

Observation:

  • A case of Staphylococcus aureus meningitis originating from pyogenic arthritis of the sacroiliac joint is presented.
  • The patient had no history of trauma or neurosurgical manipulation.
  • Physical examination can suggest sacroiliitis.

Findings:

  • This case highlights the link between sacroiliitis and S. aureus meningitis.
  • Prompt and thorough investigation for underlying infections is crucial in S. aureus meningitis.
  • Radionuclide scanning (99mTc or 67Ga) aids in early diagnosis of sacroiliitis.

Implications:

  • Increased awareness of sacroiliitis as a source of S. aureus meningitis is needed.
  • Early diagnosis and treatment of sacroiliitis can prevent meningitis.
  • Physicians must maintain a high index of suspicion for sacroiliitis in meningitis patients.

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