Spontaneous Bilateral Sternoclavicular Joint Septic Arthritis and Lumbar Discitis: An Unusual Case in a Healthy Adult

Abstract

Introduction. Septic arthritis of the sternoclavicular (SC) joint is a rare condition. Typically, it presents in patients with risk of infection and is usually unilateral. In this report, we describe a case of spontaneous bilateral sternoclavicular joint infection of an otherwise healthy adult. Case Presentation. A 67-year-old man presented in our hospital complaining of 2-week history of neck and chest pain which was radiating to his shoulders bilaterally. Clinical examination revealed erythema and swelling of the sternoclavicular area. Inflammatory markers were raised. Image investigation with CT and MRI was undertaken and verified the presence of bilateral sternoclavicular joint infection. The patient received prolonged course of intravenous antibiotics since his admission. The patient was discharged in a good condition and followed up in clinic. Conclusion. High index of clinical suspicion of SC joint infection is important for early diagnosis to avoid further complications.