Embolic Stroke Caused by Staphylococcus lugdunensis Endocarditis Complicating Vasectomy in a 36-Year-Old Man

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Cardiology
• Neurology

Background:

• Staphylococcus lugdunensis is a commensal bacterium found in the skin's native flora, particularly in the inguinal region.
• Inguinal surgeries, including vasectomy, can increase the risk of infection from S. lugdunensis in carriers.
• Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus lugdunensis is known to cause native-valve endocarditis with a severe clinical progression.

Observation:

• A 36-year-old male presented with symptoms of endocarditis, dysarthria, and hemiparesis.
• The patient had undergone a vasectomy approximately five weeks prior to symptom onset.
• Clinical presentation suggested an embolic event secondary to endocarditis.

Findings:

• The patient was diagnosed with Staphylococcus lugdunensis native-valve endocarditis.
• This case represents the first reported instance of embolic stroke caused by S. lugdunensis endocarditis.
• The findings underscore the potential for S. lugdunensis to cause severe systemic complications beyond cardiac valvular damage.

Implications:

• This case expands the known spectrum of Staphylococcus lugdunensis pathogenicity.
• It highlights the importance of considering S. lugdunensis as a potential pathogen in patients with endocarditis and neurological deficits, especially after inguinal procedures.
• Further research may be warranted to understand the mechanisms of S. lugdunensis-associated embolic events and optimize treatment strategies.