Spontaneouscorynebacteriumspondylodiskitis in an immunocompetent patient: A case report and literature review

Abstract

Background: Spontaneous Corynebacterium spondylodiskitis is an unusual diagnosis of spondylodiskitis, especially in healthy patients without any significant past medical history. Materials and methods: We describe the case of a 78-year-old man with progressive low back pain for 3 months, irradiating down the lower limbs through L5 and S1 root pathways, associated with distal muscle weakness in both lower limbs. He had no history of trauma or medical problems. Laboratory investigation revealed elevated serum C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate, without leukocytosis. The magnetic resonance findings demonstrated an extensive L5-S1 spondylodiskitis and L4-L5 anterolisthesis. Prior to spinopelvic fixation and posterolateral fusion, a substantial debridement was performed. The obtained tissue samples were submitted to pathological and microbiological studies, which identified Corynebacterium infection. Results: One month after surgery, the pain diminished dramatically and the CRP titer diminished significantly. Conclusion: Although cases are very rare, spontaneous Corynebacterium spondylodiskitis, with substantial invasion of the spine, may develop in patients lacking any history of medical or surgical problems.