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Brucella endocarditis complicated by acute glomerulonephritis--early surgical intervention
D Sharivker1, A Vazan, J Varkel
1Department of Cardiology, Western Galilee Hospital, Nahariya, Israel. llmmnno@netvision.net.il
Acta Cardiologica
|January 17, 2002
Summary
Brucellosis endocarditis, a rare but fatal complication, can affect the aortic valve and kidneys. Successful treatment involved valve replacement and intensive medical therapy for this zoonotic disease.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiology
- Nephrology
Background:
- Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease prevalent in the Middle East and Mediterranean regions.
- Brucellosis endocarditis is a rare complication, occurring in less than 2% of cases, but is a leading cause of mortality.
- Bicuspid aortic valve disease is a congenital condition that can predispose individuals to infective endocarditis.
Observation:
- A patient presented with Brucella endocarditis affecting a bicuspid aortic valve.
- The patient also developed acute glomerulonephritis secondary to the Brucella infection.
- Diagnosis was initially suggested by a high agglutination titer and confirmed by positive blood cultures.
Findings:
- Urgent aortic valve replacement was performed successfully.
- Intensive medical therapy was administered concurrently with surgical intervention.
- The patient's condition improved following the combined treatment approach.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering Brucella endocarditis in patients with relevant exposure history and cardiac symptoms.
- Early diagnosis and aggressive management, including surgical intervention and medical therapy, are crucial for favorable outcomes.
- The successful treatment of Brucella endocarditis complicated by glomerulonephritis underscores the effectiveness of a multidisciplinary approach in managing severe zoonotic infections.