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Acinetobacter endocarditis presenting as a large right atrial mass: an atypical presentation
Sherrita Bhagan-Bruno1, Navneet Lather, Icilma V Fergus
1Department of Cardiology, Staten Island University Hospital, Staten Island, NY, USA.
Echocardiography (Mount Kisco, N.Y.)
|June 10, 2010
Summary
This case report details a rare instance of Acinetobacter endocarditis in a hemodialysis patient, presenting as a large right atrial mass. Prompt treatment involving catheter removal, antibiotics, and surgery led to recovery.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiology
- Nephrology
Background:
- End-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients on hemodialysis are at increased risk for infections.
- Acinetobacter calcoaceticus-baumannii complex is an opportunistic pathogen, rarely causing endocarditis.
Observation:
- A 26-year-old woman with ESRD on hemodialysis developed Acinetobacter endocarditis.
- An indwelling right internal jugular catheter was the likely source of infection.
- Echocardiography revealed a large intracardiac mass (over 50% of the right atrial cavity) without valvular involvement.
Findings:
- This is the first reported case of Acinetobacter endocarditis presenting as a large, non-valvular right atrial mass.
- The patient successfully recovered after catheter removal, antibiotics, and surgical mass resection.
Implications:
- Highlights the potential for atypical presentations of Acinetobacter endocarditis in immunocompromised patients.
- Emphasizes the importance of considering unusual pathogens and presentations in catheter-related infections.
- Suggests a multidisciplinary approach for managing complex cases of endocarditis in ESRD patients.
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