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Published on: February 24, 2023
Pacemaker infection secondary to burkholderia pseudomallei
Imran Zainal Abidin1, Syahidah Syed Tamin, Lian Huat Tan
1Cardiology Unit, University Malaya Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Abstract:
Infection is a relatively rare but devastating complication of intracardiac device implantation. Burkholderia pseudomallei is the organism which causes melioidosis, an endemic and lethal infection in the tropics. We describe a case of pacemaker infection secondary to Burkholderia pseudomallei, which was treated by explantation of the device and appropriate antimicrobial therapy.
Insights
Pacemaker infections are rare but serious complications. This case details a successful treatment for a pacemaker infection caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, a tropical pathogen, using device removal and antibiotics.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiology
- Tropical Medicine
Background:
- Intracardiac device implantation, such as pacemakers, carries a risk of infection.
- Melioidosis, caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, is a severe and often fatal infection endemic in tropical regions.
Observation:
- A rare case of pacemaker infection was identified.
- The causative agent was confirmed as Burkholderia pseudomallei.
Findings:
- The patient's pacemaker infection was successfully treated.
- Treatment involved the explantation of the infected device.
- Appropriate antimicrobial therapy was administered.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering melioidosis in pacemaker infections, especially in endemic areas.
- Demonstrates the efficacy of surgical explantation and targeted antibiotics for device-related Burkholderia pseudomallei infections.
- Underscores the need for vigilance regarding rare but devastating infectious complications of cardiac devices.
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