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Propionibacterium avidum sacroiliitis and osteomyelitis
O Estoppey1, G Rivier, C H Blanc
1Rheumatology Department, Vaudois Teaching Hospital, Läusanne, Switzerland.
Abstract:
The anaerobic Gram-positive bacterium Propionibacterium avidum is a common inhabitant of the skin with low pathogenicity. We report a case of P. avidum sacroilitis, psoas abscess and osteomyelitis in a 67-year-old male who had recently undergone surgical repair of an inguinal hernia. The organism was recovered from blood cultures, a bone biopsy specimen and specimens from the abscess. The spectrum of bone and joint infections caused by Propionibacterium is discussed. Infection by Propionibacterium spp. should be considered in patients with bone and joint infections.
Insights
Propionibacterium avidum, a skin bacterium, caused severe bone and joint infection (sacroiliitis, psoas abscess, osteomyelitis) in an elderly male. This case highlights the need to consider Propionibacterium species in bone and joint infections.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Propionibacterium avidum is an anaerobic, Gram-positive bacterium commonly found on human skin.
- While generally considered to have low pathogenicity, Propionibacterium species can cause opportunistic infections.