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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
PubMed

Insights

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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