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Spondylodiscitis and Streptoccus viridans endocarditis
Irfan Yavasoglu1, Gurhan Kadikoylu, Zahit Bolaman
1Adnan Menderes University Medical School, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology, Aydin, Turkey. dryavas@hotmail.com
Journal of the National Medical Association
|January 7, 2006
Summary
Infective endocarditis, a rare heart valve infection, can present with low-back pain. This case highlights the importance of considering endocarditis in patients with spondylodiscitis and fever.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Infective endocarditis (IE) and spondylodiscitis are distinct conditions.
- Differentiating IE from rheumatologic causes of back pain can be challenging.
Observation:
- A 61-year-old male presented with low-back pain as his primary symptom.
- Diagnosis of Streptococcus viridans endocarditis was confirmed using Duke Criteria.
- Lumbar magnetic resonance imaging revealed L4-L5 spondylodiscitis.
Findings:
- The patient's infective endocarditis and spondylodiscitis were successfully treated with antibiotics.
- This case demonstrates a rare association between infective endocarditis and spondylodiscitis.
Implications:
- Fever and low-back pain in patients with spondylodiscitis warrant consideration for infective endocarditis.
- Early diagnosis and treatment of IE can prevent severe complications.