Replacement of the mitral valve in an infant with group B streptococcal endocarditis

T A Walker1, G M Aru, M R Ebeid

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, The University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson 39216, USA. twalker@ped.umsmed.edu

Insights

Group B Streptococcus endocarditis is rare in infants. Successful treatment was achieved in an infant with a normal heart via mitral valve replacement.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Neonatal Medicine

Background:

  • Group B Streptococcus (GBS) endocarditis is a rare but serious condition in infants.
  • Infant endocarditis, particularly with GBS, is associated with high morbidity and mortality.
  • Literature review identified only one prior case of GBS mitral valve endocarditis in an infant, who had congenital heart disease and a fatal outcome.

Observation:

  • A case of GBS endocarditis in an infant with a structurally normal heart is presented.
  • The infant presented with endocarditis involving the mitral valve.

Findings:

  • The infant with GBS endocarditis and a structurally normal heart was successfully treated.
  • Treatment involved surgical replacement of the mitral valve.

Implications:

  • This case highlights that GBS endocarditis can occur in infants without congenital heart disease.
  • Successful surgical intervention, such as mitral valve replacement, offers a viable treatment option for GBS endocarditis in infants with normal cardiac structures.
  • Early diagnosis and prompt surgical management are crucial for improving outcomes in this rare condition.

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