Related Experiment Videos
Extra-aortic mycotic aneurysm due to group A Streptococcus after pharyngitis
Jason S Biswas1, Oliver T A Lyons, Rachel E Bell
1Department of Infection, St. Thomas' Hospital, London, United Kingdom. jason.biswas@nhs.net
Journal of Clinical Microbiology
|June 14, 2013
Summary
Extra-aortic mycotic aneurysms are rare, with Group A Streptococcus being an infrequent cause. Molecular diagnostics identified the pathogen after negative standard cultures in a patient with a sore throat but no bacteremia.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Vascular Surgery
- Microbiology
Background:
- Mycotic aneurysms, infections of the arterial wall leading to aneurysm formation, are uncommon, particularly those located outside the aorta.
- Group A Streptococcus is a rare causative agent for mycotic aneurysms.
Observation:
- A case of an extra-aortic mycotic aneurysm is presented.
- The patient experienced a sore throat preceding the aneurysm's development.
- Standard laboratory cultures for bacteremia were negative.
Findings:
- Molecular diagnostic techniques were crucial for identifying the etiological agent.
- Group A Streptococcus was identified as the causative organism despite negative blood cultures.
Implications:
- This case highlights the utility of molecular diagnostics in identifying pathogens when conventional methods fail.
- It expands the understanding of rare causes of extra-aortic mycotic aneurysms.
- Emphasizes the importance of considering less common pathogens and diagnostic approaches in challenging cases.
Related Concept Videos
01:23Rheumatic Heart Disease I: Introduction
Rheumatic heart disease or RHD is a chronic condition that results from rheumatic fever, causing permanent damage to the heart valves.Etiology and Risk FactorsIt primarily arises from rheumatic fever, an inflammatory disease that can develop after untreated or inadequately treated group A streptococcal (GAS) pharyngitis. Streptococcus spreads through direct contact with oral or respiratory secretions. While the bacteria are the causative agents, factors like malnutrition, overcrowding, poor...
01:26Aneurysm III: Interprofessional Care
Aneurysm management involves either conservative medical therapy or surgical intervention, depending on the size and symptoms of the aneurysm. Conservative management is generally reserved for smaller, asymptomatic aneurysms, while larger or symptomatic aneurysms often necessitate surgical repair.Conservative Medical TherapyFor small, asymptomatic aneurysms, particularly abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) less than 5.5 centimeters in diameter, conservative medical therapy is recommended. This...
01:30Aneurysm I: Introduction
An aortic aneurysm is a localized outpouching or dilation at a weak point in the artery wall. It may involve different parts of the aorta, such as the abdominal aorta, aortic arch, or thoracic aorta.Etiological factorsSeveral disorders are associated with aortic aneurysms.Congenital causes, such as primary connective tissue disorders like Marfan syndrome, impact the integrity and strength of connective tissues, notably affecting the aorta. Marfan syndrome is a genetic disorder that specifically...
01:21Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Thoracic, aortic arch and abdominal aneurysms are significant vascular conditions that can present with various clinical manifestations and lead to serious complications. Understanding these manifestations and the appropriate diagnostic studies is essential for effective management and treatment.Thoracic Aortic AneurysmsThoracic aortic aneurysms often remain asymptomatic until they reach a size that impinges on adjacent structures. They typically cause deep, diffuse chest pain that radiates to...
01:29Staphylococcal Skin Infections
Staphylococcus aureus is a Gram-positive coccus that resides harmlessly on the skin and mucous membranes of healthy individuals. When the skin barrier is breached, it can shift from a commensal to an opportunistic pathogen. This transition is facilitated by surface adhesins, such as clumping factor B and S. aureus surface protein G (SasG), which bind to structural proteins, including loricrin and cytokeratin, in the damaged epidermis. Protein A, another key factor, binds the Fc region of...
01:30Tonsillitis I: Introduction
Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils, which are two lymphoid tissue masses at the back of the throat. This condition can cause discomfort and irritation in the throat.
Etiology
Three primary contributing factors have been identified.
Etiology
Three primary contributing factors have been identified.