Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 6, 2026
07:27
Recurrent Herpetic Stromal Keratitis in Mice, a Model for Studying Human HSK
Published on: December 18, 2012
Herpes simplex virus pneumonia following mitral valve replacement.
Akiko Yamaguchi1, Shigekiyo Matsumoto, Satoshi Hagiwara
1Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, 1-1 Hasamamachi, Yufu, Oita, 879-5593, Japan. akiy1972@med.oita-u.ac.jp
General Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery
|November 12, 2010
Summary
A rare case of herpes simplex virus pneumonia occurred in a 79-year-old woman post-mitral valve replacement. Prompt acyclovir treatment resolved hypoxemia, highlighting viral pneumonia in critically ill patients.
Area of Science:
- Medicine
- Virology
- Critical Care
Background:
- Post-operative complications following cardiac surgery can be diverse.
- Pneumonia is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in critically ill patients.
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) can cause severe opportunistic infections in immunocompromised individuals.
Observation:
- A 79-year-old female patient developed persistent hypoxemia after mitral valve replacement.
- Chest radiography revealed bilateral ground-glass opacities, suggestive of atypical pneumonia.
- Standard antibiotic therapy was ineffective in improving the patient's respiratory status.
Findings:
- Cytopathology of intratracheal secretions confirmed the presence of herpes simplex virus.
- The patient's hypoxemia and radiographic findings resolved following treatment with acyclovir.
- Successful extubation and recovery were achieved after antiviral therapy.
Implications:
- Herpes simplex virus pneumonia should be considered in critically ill, immunocompromised patients with unexplained hypoxemia unresponsive to antibiotics.
- Early diagnosis and antiviral treatment are crucial for managing severe HSV infections post-cardiac surgery.
- This case underscores the importance of considering viral etiologies in post-operative pulmonary complications.
Related Concept Videos
01:22Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction
Mitral Valve Stenosis (MVS) is a heart condition where the mitral valve narrows, impeding blood circulation from the left atrium to the left ventricle. The etiology and pathophysiology of this condition are multifaceted, leading to a cascade of cardiovascular complications.Causes of Mitral Valve StenosisRheumatic Heart Disease: It is the main cause of mitral valve stenosis, particularly in developing nations. This condition arises from rheumatic fever, an inflammatory illness resulting from...
01:26Mitral Stenosis III: Medical Management
Mitral stenosis, a condition marked by the narrowing of the mitral valve, necessitates an integrated approach for effective management. This approach includes preventative measures, medical therapy, and surgical interventions to reduce symptoms and prevent complications.PreventionPrevention of mitral stenosis primarily focuses on reducing the incidence of bacterial infections, particularly streptococcal infections, which can lead to rheumatic fever and subsequent valvular damage. Timely...
01:27Mitral Stenosis IV: Nursing Management
A comprehensive nursing assessment is essential for patients with valvular heart disease, which involves any dysfunction of the heart valves that could impact blood flow and overall heart function.Subjective Data Collection:Chief Complaint and Present Illness: Start with the patient's primary concerns, focusing on the onset, duration, and progression of cardiac symptoms such as dyspnea, fatigue, chest pain, and palpitations.Past Medical History: Collect detailed information on any previous...
01:28Mitral Regurgitation IV: Nursing Management
Mitral regurgitation (MR) is a condition where the mitral valve does not close properly, leading to the backward flow of blood from the left ventricle into the left atrium during systole. This condition can arise from various causes, including rheumatic fever, infective endocarditis, or degenerative valve disease. Effective nursing management is crucial to optimizing patient outcomes and involves comprehensive assessment and targeted interventions.Comprehensive Patient AssessmentA detailed...
01:23Mitral Stenosis II: Clinical features and Diagnostic Tests
Mitral stenosis is a heart condition in which the mitral valve, which allows blood to flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle, becomes narrowed or stenotic. This narrowing hinders blood flow and leads to clinical symptoms requiring specific medical evaluations and management strategies. The following overview outlines the clinical symptoms, assessments, diagnostic findings, prevention methods, and treatments for mitral stenosis.Clinical ManifestationsDyspnea (shortness of breath): This...
01:22Mitral Valve Prolapse II: Assessment and Management
IntroductionA range of clinical features characterizes Mitral Valve Prolapse (MVP), but it is important to note that many individuals with MVP are asymptomatic and may remain so throughout their lives. For those who do exhibit symptoms, the following are the key clinical features:Palpitations: This is a common symptom where individuals feel an irregular or rapid heartbeat. Palpitations in MVP are often due to arrhythmias such as premature ventricular contractions or supraventricular tachycardia.