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Kytococcus schroeteri: a probably underdiagnosed pathogen involved in prosthetic valve endocarditis
Christian Aepinus1, Esther Adolph, Christof von Eiff
1Department of Medical Microbiology, Hygiene and Virology, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany. christian.aepinus@med.uni-rostock.de
Wiener Klinische Wochenschrift
|February 2, 2008
Summary
Kytoccoccus schroeteri, a prosthetic valve endocarditis pathogen, can be treated effectively with antibiotics like vancomycin, potentially avoiding surgery. This case highlights the need to recognize this emerging infection.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiology
Background:
- Kytoccoccus schroeteri is an emerging pathogen associated with prosthetic valve endocarditis.
- The species exhibits resistance to penicillins, complicating treatment options.
Observation:
- A 38-year-old diabetic female presented with prolonged fever and suspected prosthetic aortic valve infection.
- Blood cultures confirmed Kytoccoccus schroeteri, and echocardiography revealed a vegetation.
Findings:
- The patient received a combination antibiotic regimen including vancomycin, rifampin, and gentamicin.
- This treatment resulted in complete symptom resolution and vegetation disappearance without surgical intervention.
Implications:
- Successful non-surgical management of Kytoccoccus schroeteri prosthetic valve endocarditis is demonstrated.
- This case suggests potential underdiagnosis of Kytoccoccus schroeteri infections.
- Highlights the efficacy of combination antibiotic therapy in managing resistant pathogens.
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