Periprosthetic Joint Infection With Actinomyces radingae May Lead to the Identification of a Neglected Source of Intraoperative Contamination.

ABSTRACT

Periprosthetic joint infection remains a major complication in arthroplasty. We present the first description of a case of periprosthetic joint infection with Actinomyces radingae, microorganism that is mostly found on the skin of the upper body and might cause particular challenges as it is difficult to culture and specify. Furthermore, a thorough microbiologic workup may indicate the source of infection. In this case, it is possible that perspiration from the surgeon was the source of intraoperative contamination. Intraoperative contamination through perspiration may be important and should be avoided by all means.