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Pericardial abscess--a rare complication of sepsis
I Capov1, J Wechsler, J Sumbera
11st Dept. of Surg., Masaryk University, St. Ann Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic.
Abstract:
Pericardial abscess is a very rare complication of sepsis. Authors describe the case of a 69-year-old woman. In her case staphylococcus sepsis led to pericardial abscess. During the course positive blood cultures (3x) indicated the sepsis and pus was obtained from the left pleural cavity (pleuropneumonia). Concomitant purulent process in the left shoulder also was noted. Decline immunity due to long-standing corticoid therapy (prednisone) for proctocolitis idiopathica was observed. Following antibiotic treatment successful surgical evacuation of the pericardial abscess was performed.
Insights
Pericardial abscess, a rare sepsis complication, occurred in a woman with Staphylococcus sepsis. Prompt antibiotic and surgical treatment led to successful recovery.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Pericardial abscess is an exceptionally rare complication of sepsis, posing significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
- Staphylococcus sepsis can precipitate severe localized infections, including abscess formation in critical anatomical locations.
Observation:
- A 69-year-old woman with a history of chronic corticoid therapy for idiopathic proctocolitis presented with Staphylococcus sepsis.
- Clinical manifestations included positive blood cultures, left-sided pleuropneumonia with purulent effusion, and a concurrent shoulder abscess.
- The patient's immunocompromised state due to long-term prednisone use was a significant contributing factor.
Findings:
- The patient developed a pericardial abscess secondary to Staphylococcus sepsis.
- Diagnostic workup confirmed sepsis through positive blood cultures and identified purulent material in the pleural cavity.
- Successful management involved a combination of targeted antibiotic therapy and surgical evacuation of the pericardial abscess.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering rare complications like pericardial abscess in septic patients, particularly those who are immunocompromised.
- Early recognition and multimodal treatment, including antibiotics and surgical intervention, are crucial for favorable outcomes in pericardial abscess.
- The case underscores the potential risks associated with long-term corticosteroid therapy in exacerbating infectious processes.