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Infective endocarditis affecting both systemic and pulmonary circulations predisposed by a ventricular septal defect
1Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Seirei Hamamatsu General Hospital, Japan.
The Japanese Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery : Official Publication of the Japanese Association for Thoracic Surgery = Nihon Kyobu Geka Gakkai Zasshi
|August 31, 2000
Summary
Infective endocarditis complicated by a ventricular septal defect led to severe valve damage and systemic emboli. Prompt surgical intervention involving valve replacement and repair resulted in a good recovery.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiac Surgery
Background:
- Infective endocarditis (IE) is a serious infection affecting heart valves.
- Ventricular septal defects (VSDs) can complicate IE, potentially leading to systemic complications.
Observation:
- A 39-year-old woman with IE presented with fever, severe aortic and mitral regurgitation, and moderate tricuspid regurgitation.
- Vegetations were found on multiple valves, alongside a small left-to-right shunt through a VSD.
- The patient developed cerebral and splenic infarctions, indicative of systemic embolization.
Findings:
- Surgical intervention included aortic and mitral valve replacement, tricuspid valve plasty, and VSD closure with a pericardial patch.
- The patient experienced a successful recovery and discharge 19 days post-operation.
Implications:
- This case highlights the complex interplay between IE and VSD.
- Early and comprehensive left heart evaluation is crucial for patients with IE and VSD.
- Aggressive surgical management can lead to favorable outcomes in complex IE cases.