Spondylodiscitis by Streptococcus Gordonii in an immunocompetent adult: A case report

Abstract

Streptococcus gordonii, a Gram-positive bacterium found in the human oral cavity, skin, intestines, and respiratory tract, can occasionally cause serious infections, including periodontitis, bacteremia, and infective endocarditis. Rarely, it can lead to infectious spondylitis, a severe spinal infection. We report a case of a 49-year-old male presenting with neck pain and fever. Examination revealed cervical spine tenderness and elevated inflammatory markers. MRI indicated spondylitic changes and cervical disc degeneration with mild disc bulge at C4-C5. Blood cultures identified S. gordonii. Hence, making a definitive diagnosis of S. gordonii causing infectious spondylodiscitis. A 6-week course of ceftriaxone resolved his symptoms and normalized inflammatory markers. Previous literature reports only few similar cases, mainly linked to dental or spinal surgeries. This is the only case reported unusual as the patient had no recent dental or spinal procedures yet predisposing to infectious spondylitis. This highlights the need for spinal imaging in patients with S. gordonii bacteremia and neck or back pain to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.