Prosthetic joint infection caused by Neisseria sicca/subflava
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Prosthetic joint infections are most commonly caused by staphylococci and streptococci, while commensal Neisseria species are exceedingly rare etiologic agents. CASE PRESENTATION: We report a 71-year-old white male with multiple comorbidities who presented with progressive left knee pain 9 years after total knee arthroplasty. Synovial fluid analysis showed an elevated leukocyte count with neutrophil predominance, and cultures subsequently grew Neisseria sicca/subflava. Given the concern for prosthetic joint infection, he underwent prosthesis explantation and received intravenous ceftriaxone 2 g daily for 6 weeks. Poor dentition was identified as a suspected potential source of hematogenous seeding. The patient demonstrated clinical improvement with surgical intervention and targeted antimicrobial therapy. CONCLUSION: Neisseria sicca/subflava should be recognized as a rare but clinically significant cause of prosthetic joint infection.
Source: Journal of Medical Case Reports
Institution: Indiana University School of Medicine
Language: English
Subfield: Surgery
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,890
OpenAlex ID: W7127152265