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Detection of Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis in Haematological Malignancy Patients by using Lateral-flow Technology
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Acute myocardial infarction caused by coronary embolism from Aspergillus endocarditis

Guang-Won Seo1, Sang-Hoon Seol, Tae-Hun No

  • 1Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Haeundae Paik Hospital, Inje University of College, Korea.

Internal Medicine (Tokyo, Japan)
|April 4, 2014
PubMed

Insights

This case report details a fatal Aspergillus endocarditis event in an immunosuppressed patient with acute myeloid leukemia, leading to myocardial infarction via embolism. It underscores the need to consider non-atherosclerotic causes of heart attack.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Hematology

Background:

  • Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is primarily linked to atherosclerosis.
  • However, other etiologies, particularly in immunocompromised individuals, must be considered.
  • This case involves a patient with acute myeloid leukemia (AML).

Observation:

  • A 53-year-old male with AML presented with ST-elevation myocardial infarction.
  • Echocardiography revealed significant vegetations on the mitral valve.
  • Coronary angiography showed occlusion of the left anterior descending artery.

Findings:

  • Histologic examination of an embolectomy specimen confirmed Aspergillus fungal thrombi.
  • The patient suffered a myocardial infarction secondary to embolism.
  • This represents a rare instance of Aspergillus endocarditis causing AMI.

Implications:

  • Highlights the importance of considering infectious causes of myocardial infarction in immunosuppressed patients.
  • Underscores the diagnostic utility of echocardiography and coronary angiography in complex cardiac events.
  • Emphasizes the critical role of prompt diagnosis and management of fungal endocarditis to prevent embolic complications.

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