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

Skull base osteomyelitis (SBO) is recognized as a potentially life-threatening infection that has been classically attributed to Pseudomonas aeruginosa. However, growing data shows that the bacteriology of SBO is changing. Traditionally thought of as commensal bacterium, P. acnes has been implicated as a serious pathogen in other specialties. Building on a previous case report from our institution, we have identified three patients with SBO who are culture-positive for Propionibacterium acnes as a single isolate. Herein, we describe the clinical history of the three patients, along with treatment, present outcome, and review of the literature. Laryngoscope, 128:332–335, 2018.