This work investigates periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) caused by rapidly growing mycobacteria (RGM) following total joint arthroplasty. Eight patients were identified as part of a retrospective review. The isolated RGM species included Mycobacterium abscessus  (three cases), M. fortuitum (three cases), and one case each of M. immunogenum and M. mageritense. We provide novel insights into the successful treatment of PJIs caused by newly identified RGM (M. immunogenum and M. mageritense).

Physicians have difficulties interpreting the isolation of Cutibacterium acnes in the spine tissue. Here we provide the experience of our center about this topic, adding data that can help physicians in their choices. Our results show that some clinical, radiological, and microbiological features can help distinguish patients to treat or not to treat. Moreover, treatment with parenteral beta-lactams appears to be effective, but targeted oral therapy could be a valid alternative.

This retrospective case-matched study evaluated males and females with staphylococcal PJI (periprosthetic joint infection) treated with two-stage exchange arthroplasty. We matched 156 males and females for age, type of staphylococcal infection, and joint involved. We compared clinical parameters related to presentation, treatment, and outcome. We did not find a statistically significant difference in outcome between males and females treated with the same surgical approach at our institution.

Despite a growing interest in oral therapy for native vertebral osteomyelitis, there is no evidence to recommend oral or parenteral therapy. From our single-center experience combined with a systematic review and a meta-analysis of the available literature, there is insufficient evidence to conclude that there is a difference in proportion of failure and relapse between an early switch to oral antibiotics and prolonged parenteral therapy. Further studies are needed to increase the evidence.

In this study, we prospectively enrolled patients with a suspected diagnosis of native vertebral osteomyelitis (NVO) undergoing image-guided needle aspiration of the intervertebral disc. Based on this pilot study, a high manual cell count or a high neutrophilic predominance from the disc aspirate was associated with the diagnosis of NVO.

This paper describes five cases of prosthetic joint infection (PJI) caused by Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC). Infections occurred in both immune competent and immunosuppressed patients. Interestingly, using the Musculoskeletal Infection Society diagnostic criteria for PJI may miss some cases of MAC PJI. Treatment courses and outcomes are described.

The yearly incidence of native vertebral osteomyelitis (NVO) is increasing. In 2013 the prevalence of NVO in the USA was 5.4 cases per 100 000. Delays in the diagnosis of NVO remain common, in part due to the insidious nature of the infection and its related symptoms. The mean time between the onset of symptoms to diagnosis of NVO is 45.5 d. We herein review available and novel diagnostic modalities at the disposal of healthcare providers to reach an accurate and timely diagnosis of NVO.

This was written to outline Mayo Clinic guidelines on prophylactic antibiotics prior to invasive procedures in patients with prosthetic joints. There is an emphasis on maintaining optimal oral health to reduce the risk of infection to minimize the patient’s risk of PJI.