Detection, characterization, and antimicrobial susceptibility of Globicatella sanguinis isolated from endodontic infections in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

Purpose: Globicatella sanguinis is an emerging pathogen rarely recognized as a cause of infection. The objective of this study was to investigate the role of this bacterium in endodontic infections in Burkina Faso and to determine its susceptibility to antibiotics.
Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at the Municipal Center of Oral Health of Ouagadougou from June to October 2014. Clinical data were collected using a sheet. Bacteria were isolated by streaking method on selective medium, and identification was done by API 20 Strep gallery. Antibiotic susceptibility was determined by the diffusion method on solid medium.
Results: A total of 125 patients were within aged 19–40 years (55.2%). Apical periodontitis accounted for 50.4%, and endodontic cellulitis accounted for 49.6% of endodontic infections. Five isolates of G. sanguinis have been identified. They were resistant (100%) to cefotaxime, metronidazole, and penicillin G. Spiramycin showed an intermediate sensitivity of 60%. Isolates showed good sensitivity (100%) to trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole, amoxicillin–clavulanic acid, and tazobactam–piperacillin. One of them produced extended spectrum β-lactamases.
Conclusion: The severity of infections caused by G. sanguinis reflects difficulties to eradicate these bacteria from the root canal system.