Chronic osteomyelitis by Aeromons hydrophilal: A silent cause of concern

Abstract

Aeromonas is a Gram-negative bacillus, widely found in aquatic environment. Osteoarticular pathology caused by AeromonA. hydrophilal is rarely encountered. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of chronic osteomyelitis by A. hydrophilal reported from India. We report a case of chronic osteomyelitis of the lower limb due to A. hydrophilal, which occurred as a delayed complication following open reduction and internal fixation. Prompt medical and surgical intervention supplemented by a comprehensive microbiological workup aided in pathogen identification and specific antimicrobial administration resulting in the successful outcome of our patient. This case illustrates the utility of multidisciplinary management approach involving microbiologists and orthopedicians in investigating and appropriately managing such cases.

Keywords

• aeromonas hydrophila
• chronic osteomyelitis
• delayed infection
• occupational injury