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Journal article : Review

To heal or harm: a systematic review of the role of fluoroquinolones in periprosthetic joint infections

Abstract:

Background: Fluoroquinolones (FQs) are currently recommended for the treatment of periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs) caused by staphylococci and Gram-negative bacteria (GNB) in patients undergoing debridement, antibiotics and implant retention (DAIR). In recent decades, reports of serious adverse events associated with FQ use have led to official regulatory recommendations for their restricted use. This review aims to describe the evidence for, and discuss the risks and benefits of, FQ use for PJI.

Methods: A comprehensive search of MEDLINE and EMBASE up to October 2024 was conducted using pre-defined criteria to identify studies addressing (i) the efficacy of FQs in treating staphylococcal and GNB-PJI, and (ii) serious adverse events associated with FQs. A narrative synthesis of the results was performed.

Results: No randomized controlled trials were identified. A total of 19 retrospective studies were reviewed to assess the efficacy of FQs in treating staphylococcal and GNB-PJI, though the sample sizes in these studies were relatively small. Fifty-seven studies, mostly large retrospective epidemiological cohorts, were found evaluating adverse events associated with FQ treatment.

Conclusions: There is evidence supporting the use of FQ monotherapy for GNB-PJI and FQ combined with rifampin for staphylococcal PJIs following DAIR over other antimicrobial regimens. There is evidence that FQs are associated with an increased risk of tendinopathy, prolonged QTc interval, peripheral neuropathy and dysglycaemia, however the absolute risk is low. When FQs are used in the treatment of PJIs, an individualized risk assessment and close monitoring during treatment are recommended.

Publication status:
Published
Peer review status:
Peer reviewed

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Publisher copy:
10.1016/j.cmicom.2025.105103

Authors

More by this author
Role:
Author
ORCID:
0000-0002-9213-9274
More by this author
Role:
Author
ORCID:
0000-0002-7578-882X
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Institution:
University of Oxford
Division:
MSD
Department:
NDM
Sub department:
NDM Experimental Medicine
Oxford college:
Oriel College
Role:
Author
ORCID:
0000-0001-6071-6770


Publisher:
Elsevier
Journal:
CMI Communications More from this journal
Volume:
2
Issue:
3
Article number:
105103
Publication date:
2025-06-09
Acceptance date:
2025-06-08
DOI:
EISSN:
2950-5909


Language:
English
Keywords:
Subtype:
Review
Pubs id:
2129090
Local pid:
pubs:2129090
Deposit date:
2025-06-10
ARK identifier:

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