Related Experiment Videos
Purulent pericarditis caused by group G streptococcus as an initial presentation of colon cancer
Nam Ho Kim1, Jong Pil Park, Seong Hui Jeon
1Department of Internal Medicine, Wonkwang University School of Medicine, Iksan, Korea. kimnh@netian.com
Abstract:
Bacterial pericarditis has been recognized as a rare disease since the development of antibiotics. Usually, the disease is associated with underlying conditions or a seeding of infection elsewhere to the pericardium. Here we describe a case of group G streptococcal pericarditis as an initial presentation of colon cancer. A 52-yr-old man was admitted because of dyspnea. An electrocardiogram showed a diffuse ST-segment elevation and a two-dimensional echocardiogram showed a large amount of pericardial effusion. A pericardiocentesis was done and purulent fluid was drained. Group G streptococci was cultured in pericardial fluid. The patient was treated with antibiotics and pericardiostomy with saline irrigation. A colonoscopy revealed a small mass with moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma in rectosigmoid colon. He underwent a mucosectomy and was recovered without any complication.
Insights
Group G streptococcal pericarditis, a rare condition, can be an early sign of colon cancer. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of this infection and underlying malignancy are crucial for patient recovery.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Bacterial pericarditis is a rare condition, often linked to other health issues or infections elsewhere in the body.
- The development of antibiotics has improved outcomes, but early recognition remains key.
Observation:
- A 52-year-old male presented with dyspnea, diffuse ST-segment elevation on ECG, and significant pericardial effusion on echocardiogram.
- Purulent fluid drained via pericardiocentesis revealed Group G Streptococcus.
- Diagnostic workup identified a rectosigmoid colon adenocarcinoma.
Findings:
- The patient was successfully treated with antibiotics and pericardiostomy for streptococcal pericarditis.
- Surgical resection of the colon cancer led to a full recovery without complications.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering malignancy in patients presenting with seemingly isolated infections like bacterial pericarditis.
- It underscores the need for a comprehensive diagnostic approach, integrating cardiology, infectious disease, and gastroenterology evaluations.
- Early detection and management of both the infection and the underlying cancer are vital for favorable patient outcomes.