Atypical infection of a total hip endoprosthesis due to Mycobacterium fortuitum: Case report of an infection of a total hip endoprosthesis with Mycobacterium fortuitum

Only a few cases of infection of an endoprosthesis with mycobacterium fortuitum have been reported, each resulting in functionally unsatisfactory outcomes. We performed a stem revision cementless total hip endoprosthesis six months after primary implantation after the appearance of the typical radiological and clinical signs of aseptic loosening. Histological and molecular-biological analysis of the intra-operative specimens confirmed an infection with Mycobacterium fortuitum. Following antimicrobial therapy, the patient is painfree and fully weight-bearing seven months after replacement. If aseptic loosening of an endoprosthesis is suspected, an infection with Mycobacterium fortuitum should be considered.