Microbiological profile and increasing rifampin resistance in periprosthetic joint infections: a six-year single-center study from Argentina
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Purpose Periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs) of the hip and knee remain a significant complication in arthroplasty. Regional microbiological data, particularly from South America, are limited. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the microbiological profile and antibiotic resistance trends in PJIs over six years at a tertiary center in Argentina. Methods We retrospectively reviewed 195 PJI cases (hip and knee) treated at a single tertiary center between 2019 and 2024. Microbiological cultures, resistance profiles, and clinical variables were analyzed. Results We isolated 325 microorganisms. Gram-positive organisms predominated (68.3%), with coagulase-negative staphylococci (31.1%) and Staphylococcus aureus (16.3%) being the most frequent pathogens. Pseudomonas aeruginosa (13.2%) led among gram-negatives. Rifampin resistance in coagulase-negative staphylococci significantly increased from 12.0% (2019–2021) to 33.9% (2022–2024, p < 0.01). Conclusion Microbiological patterns remained stable, but rising rifampin resistance in staphylococci warrants enhanced antimicrobial stewardship. These findings highlight the urgency of updating local antibiotic policies and strengthening antimicrobial stewardship programs in South America.
