Escherichia coli associated hematogenous sternoclavicular joint osteomyelitis: A rare condition with a rare causative pathogen

Tyler Luu; Gail Reid; Brian Lavery

doi:10.1016/j.idcr.2022.e01381

Escherichia coli associated hematogenous sternoclavicular joint osteomyelitis: A rare condition with a rare causative pathogen

IDCases. 2022 Jan 6:27:e01381. doi: 10.1016/j.idcr.2022.e01381. eCollection 2022.

Authors

Tyler Luu¹, Gail Reid¹, Brian Lavery²

Affiliations

¹ Loyola University Medical Center, Department of Internal Medicine, 2160 S 1st Avenue, Maywood, IL 60153, USA.
² Edward Hines, Jr. VA Hospital, Department of Internal Medicine, 5000 5th Ave, Hines, IL 60141, USA.

Abstract

Escherichia coli is the most common microorganism that causes urinary tract infections (UTIs), including acute prostatitis. However, E. coli osteomyelitis, especially ones that involve the sternoclavicular joint, are rare hematogenous complications. We present a case of an immunocompetent man who presented with symptoms of UTI and right shoulder pain. Urine cultures and blood cultures grew E. coli. There was radiographic evidence of prostatic abscess and a right sternoclavicular joint osteomyelitis. This case is unique given the rare occurrence of non-traumatic clavicular bacterial osteomyelitis and the type of bacteria involved. In conclusion, it is important for clinicians to be aware of E. coli sternoclavicular osteomyelitis in adults with preceding bacterial prostatitis.

Keywords: E. coli; Osteomyelitis; Prostatic abscess; Sternoclavicular joint osteomyelitis; UTI.

Publication types

Case Reports