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Infective endocarditis caused by unusual gram-positive pathogens

J Benes1, D Pícha, M Kabelková

  • 1Department of Infectious Diseases, 3rd Medical Faculty, Charles University, 100 00 Prague, Czechia. benesj@cesnet.cz

Folia Microbiologica
|March 13, 2003
PubMed

Insights

This study identified rare Gram-positive pathogens causing infectious endocarditis, including Streptococcus pyogenes and Corynebacterium diphtheriae. Early diagnosis and treatment, including antibiotics and surgery, are crucial for patient outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Cardiology
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Infectious endocarditis is a serious infection of the heart lining.
  • Gram-positive pathogens are common causes of endocarditis.

Observation:

  • A 10-year study (1990-2000) analyzed 81 patients with Gram-positive infectious endocarditis.
  • Unusual etiological agents were identified in several cases.

Findings:

  • Identified pathogens included Streptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Corynebacterium diphtheriae, and Gemella morbillorum.
  • Two patients with cardiac defects (bicuspid aortic valve, tetralogy of Fallot) had unusual agents.
  • Successful treatment involved antibiotics alone or with surgery.
  • One patient with Corynebacterium diphtheriae died from sepsis and organ failure.

Implications:

  • Highlights the importance of considering rare pathogens in infectious endocarditis diagnosis.
  • Emphasizes the role of cardiac defects in disease presentation and outcomes.
  • Underscores the need for prompt and appropriate antimicrobial and surgical interventions.

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