Eikenella corrodens in a patient with septic arthritis: A case report

Abstract

Eikenella corrodens, a Gram-negative bacterium, is typically associated with fight-bite injuries and, in rare cases, with infective endocarditis. Infection may arise either through direct inoculation or through invasion of oral mucosa with subsequent bacteraemia. This bacterium is an unusual cause of infection in immunocompetent patients without direct injury. There are no studies published from Ethiopia on identification of Eikenella corrodens in humans. In this case report, we describe a patient with a septic arthritis and tibia bone abscess where Eikenella corrodens was identified. Recognition of septic arthritis was delayed and identification of the microorganism was challenging. This influenced the choice and duration of treatment and has likely affected the patient’s outcome. This case report emphasizes the significance of recognizing rare pathogens in complex cases, considering slow-growing microorganisms and anticipating treatment challenges when uncommon microorganisms are involved.