Temporomandibular Prosthetic Joint Infections Associated With Propionibacterium acnes: A Case Series, and a Review of the Literature

Propionibacterium acnes as an emerging pathogen in skull base osteomyelitis: A case series

“…The virulence of this commensal bacterium is thought to be due to its ability to form biofilms and its production of a number of enzymes that can destroy host tissue . A case series of P. acnes infections in patients with temporomandibular joint prostheses has also been reported within the field of otolaryngology, although the patients in that study presented with mild symptoms of infection rather than significant osteomyelitis . Vertebral osteomyelitis and other postoperative complications have also been reported as an emerging problem in patients undergoing neurosurgical procedures .…”

“…10 A case series of P. acnes infections in patients with temporomandibular joint prostheses has also been reported within the field of otolaryngology, although the patients in that study presented with mild symptoms of infection rather than significant osteomyelitis. 11 Vertebral osteomyelitis and other postoperative complications have also been reported as an emerging problem in patients undergoing neurosurgical procedures. 12,13 None of the patients in our series had implants, although some previously had dental extractions or biopsies.…”

Reconstruction of the mandibular condyle due to degenerative disease

“…The most common organisms causing PJI include staphylococcus aureus, staphylococcus epidermidis and cutibacterium acnes (previously known as propioibacterium acnes). 32 , 33 Cultures taken at the time of surgery will guide the IV antibiotic choice. C. Acnes is a gram-positive skin commensal that prefers anaerobic growth conditions, and it requires a prolonged incubation of 2 weeks in order to identify its presence in cultures.…”