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Atopic dermatitis as a risk factor for acute native valve endocarditis.
1Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Mie University School of Medicine, Tsu, Japan.
The Journal of Heart Valve Disease
|July 11, 2000
Summary
Severe atopic dermatitis (AD) can increase the risk of Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia and subsequent heart valve infections. Prompt treatment of skin lesions and endocarditis is crucial for patient recovery.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Atopic dermatitis (AD) is associated with Staphylococcus aureus colonization and increased risk of skin infections.
- Pruritic lesions in AD can lead to recurrent bacteremia.
- Uncontrolled AD may be a risk factor for infective endocarditis.
Observation:
- Two cases of acute native valve endocarditis are presented.
- Patients had severe AD with recurrent cutaneous infections.
- Endocarditis involved aortic and/or mitral valves.
Findings:
- S. aureus was implicated in the endocarditis cases.
- Patients required surgical intervention for valvular lesions.
- Successful outcomes were achieved with combined cardiac surgery, antibiotics, and AD management.
Implications:
- Highlights the link between severe AD and infective endocarditis.
- Emphasizes the importance of managing AD to prevent systemic complications.
- Demonstrates the efficacy of a multidisciplinary approach in treating complex cases.