Multisystem organ failure due to Gemella morbillorum native valve endocarditis

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Cardiology
• Microbiology

Background:

• Gemella morbillorum is typically commensal flora in human respiratory, gastrointestinal, and genitourinary tracts.
• Pathogenic Gemella morbillorum infections, including endocarditis, are infrequently reported, often linked to specific risk factors like dental procedures or prosthetic valves.

Observation:

• An 87-year-old male with pre-existing severe mitral regurgitation and atrial fibrillation developed multisystem organ failure.
• The patient presented with Gemella morbillorum native valve endocarditis without an apparent precipitating factor.

Findings:

• Diagnosis was confirmed using Duke criteria.
• Treatment involved intravenous fluids, packed red blood cell transfusion, and broad-spectrum antibiotics.
• The patient showed clinical improvement and survived the critical illness.

Implications:

• This case highlights Gemella morbillorum as a potential cause of severe native valve endocarditis, even in the absence of typical risk factors.
• Early diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic management are crucial for improving outcomes in patients with Gemella morbillorum endocarditis.
• The case underscores the importance of considering less common pathogens in severe infections, particularly in elderly patients with comorbidities.