Infection of a total hip prosthesis in a dog caused by Achromobacter (Alcaligenes) xylosoxidans

Abstract

A four-year-old male, neutered Labrador retriever was presented with progressive left hindlimb lameness 10 months following total hip replacement. Radiography revealed changes consistent with infection and culture of joint fluid from the left coxofemoral joint revealed Achromobacter (Alcaligenes) xylosoxidans. The prosthesis was removed. Culture of the acetabular cup confirmed Achromobacter xylosoxidans. Achromobacter xylosoxidans is an uncommon but serious cause of nosocomial epidemics in hospitals for human beings. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of total hip prosthetic infection with Achromobacter xylosoxidans. Little is reported about its pathogenicity in human beings and the authors failed to retrieve any reports of its clinical significance in animals. © 2006 British Small Animal Veterinary Association.