Related Experiment Video

Updated: Oct 9, 2026

A Periprosthetic Joint Candida albicans Infection Model in Mouse
04:37

A Periprosthetic Joint Candida albicans Infection Model in Mouse

Published on: February 2, 2024

Prosthetic valve fungal endocarditis due to histoplasmosis

P A Isotalo1, K L Chan, F Rubens

  • 1Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.

The Canadian Journal of Cardiology
|March 27, 2001
PubMed

Insights

Diagnosing fungal endocarditis is challenging due to infrequent pathogen detection in blood cultures. This case highlights histopathology of cardiac valves for identifying fungal causes of culture-negative endocarditis.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Mycology

Background:

  • Fungal endocarditis presents significant morbidity and mortality.
  • Diagnosis is often difficult due to low rates of pathogen isolation from blood cultures.
  • Histopathological examination of cardiac valves and emboli can aid in diagnosing culture-negative cases.

Observation:

  • A 63-year-old male presented with culture-negative endocarditis.
  • Echocardiograms revealed progressive vegetations and valve stenosis despite antimicrobial therapy.
  • The patient experienced multiple peripheral emboli prior to surgical intervention.

Findings:

  • Disseminated histoplasmosis was confirmed via bone marrow culture.
  • Histopathological analysis of the excised mitral valve prosthesis showed yeast consistent with Histoplasma.
  • Successful treatment with amphotericin was administered post-surgery.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of histopathology in diagnosing fungal endocarditis.
  • Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management and improved patient outcomes.
  • Consideration of fungal etiologies is vital in culture-negative endocarditis cases.

Related Concept Videos

Endocarditis I: Introduction01:25

Endocarditis I: Introduction

Introduction:Endocarditis is the infection of the endocardium, the inner lining of the heart and its valves. When the heart muscle is involved, the condition is termed myocarditis, while an infection of the outer lining is called pericarditis. Infective endocarditis (IE) primarily affects the endocardium, where pathogens adhere to the valves or lining, forming vegetation that can lead to severe complications. Infective endocarditis occurs when microorganisms, usually bacteria from other body...
Cryptococcal Meningitis01:27

Cryptococcal Meningitis

Cryptococcal meningitis is a life-threatening opportunistic infection predominantly associated with HIV/AIDS, accounting for over 100,000 deaths annually worldwide. However, it also affects individuals with other forms of immunosuppression, including those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy, organ transplant recipients, patients with innate immunodeficiencies, and individuals with hematological disorders. The infection is caused mainly by Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii,...
Endocarditis III: Medical Management01:18

Endocarditis III: Medical Management

Infective endocarditis management involves a multifaceted approach encompassing infection prevention, lifestyle modifications, pharmacological therapy, and surgical management.Infection Prevention:Hand Hygiene: Thorough handwashing is crucial to prevent the spread of infection. Hand hygiene should be performed regularly, especially before and after using the restroom.Oral Hygiene: Good oral hygiene is essential. It includes brushing teeth immediately after waking up and before bed, flossing...
Endocarditis II: Clinical Features of Infective Endocarditis01:25

Endocarditis II: Clinical Features of Infective Endocarditis

Endocarditis can present various clinical features depending on the causative organism and the patient's underlying health conditions. Initially, the clinical features of infective endocarditis develop gradually, presenting with nonspecific symptoms that can be easily mistaken for other illnesses.General SymptomsEarly symptoms of infective endocarditis are fever, chills, weakness, malaise, fatigue, and weight loss. These symptoms reflect the systemic nature of the infection and the body's...
Mitral Stenosis III: Medical Management01:26

Mitral Stenosis III: Medical Management

Mitral stenosis, a condition marked by the narrowing of the mitral valve, necessitates an integrated approach for effective management. This approach includes preventative measures, medical therapy, and surgical interventions to reduce symptoms and prevent complications.PreventionPrevention of mitral stenosis primarily focuses on reducing the incidence of bacterial infections, particularly streptococcal infections, which can lead to rheumatic fever and subsequent valvular damage. Timely...
Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction01:22

Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction

Mitral Valve Stenosis (MVS) is a heart condition where the mitral valve narrows, impeding blood circulation from the left atrium to the left ventricle. The etiology and pathophysiology of this condition are multifaceted, leading to a cascade of cardiovascular complications.Causes of Mitral Valve StenosisRheumatic Heart Disease: It is the main cause of mitral valve stenosis, particularly in developing nations. This condition arises from rheumatic fever, an inflammatory illness resulting from...