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Pacemaker endocarditis due to Haemophilus parainfluenza: case report and literature review

P Sammut1, H Woodcock, N Oswal

  • 1Department of Paediatrics, Bedford Hospital NHS Trust, Kempston Road, Bedford. MK42 9DJ.

Images in Paediatric Cardiology
|February 28, 2012
PubMed

Insights

A rare case of pacemaker infective endocarditis caused by Haemophilus parainfluenzae in a 14-month-old girl is presented. This is the first reported pediatric case, highlighting unique management considerations for this serious infection.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Medical Device Infections

Background:

  • Pacemaker infective endocarditis (PIE) is a serious complication of cardiac implantable electronic devices.
  • While common in adults, PIE in pediatric patients is exceptionally rare.

Observation:

  • A 14-month-old girl presented with symptoms suggestive of device infection.
  • Diagnostic workup revealed pacemaker infective endocarditis.

Findings:

  • The causative pathogen was identified as Haemophilus parainfluenzae.
  • This represents the first documented case of PIE in a child due to this specific bacterium.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering rare pathogens in pediatric PIE.
  • Management strategies require careful consideration of the limited pediatric data and evidence-based guidelines.

Keywords:
EndocarditisHaemophilus parainfluenzaePacemakerartificial

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