Pacemaker associated infection due to a corynebacterium species

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Updated: Aug 23, 2026

Visualization of Streptococcus pneumoniae within Cardiac Microlesions and Subsequent Cardiac Remodeling
08:25

Visualization of Streptococcus pneumoniae within Cardiac Microlesions and Subsequent Cardiac Remodeling

Published on: April 7, 2015

M Klima1, J Clarridge, A Chapman

  • 1Laboratory Service and Section of Infectious Diseases, Veterans Administration Medical Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA.

Texas Heart Institute Journal
|June 1, 1985
PubMed

Insights

Pacemaker associated infection (PAI) is a rare complication. This case highlights Corynebacterium infection from a retained pacemaker electrode, emphasizing diagnostic importance.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Medical Device Complications

Background:

  • Pacemaker associated infection (PAI) is a rare but serious complication of cardiac pacemakers.
  • Risk factors include recent pacemaker manipulations or surgical procedures.
  • PAI can arise during insertion, from local spread, or transient bacteremia.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To report a case of PAI caused by a retained pacemaker electrode.
  • To highlight the diagnostic challenges and importance of microbiological analysis in PAI.

Main Methods:

  • Case report of a patient with PAI.
  • Isolation of Corynebacterium species from surgical tissue and thrombus around the retained electrode.
  • Use of cultures and special stains, including electron microscopy.

Main Results:

  • Corynebacterium species was isolated from the retained pacemaker electrode and surrounding thrombus.
  • Preoperative cultures were sterile, indicating the challenge in early diagnosis.
  • Microorganisms were visualized around the wire deep within the thrombus.

Conclusions:

  • Retained pacemaker electrodes can harbor microorganisms, leading to PAI.
  • Cultures and special stains of surgical materials are crucial for diagnosing PAI, especially with low-virulence organisms.
  • This case underscores the need for thorough investigation in suspected PAI cases.

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