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Visualization of Streptococcus pneumoniae within Cardiac Microlesions and Subsequent Cardiac Remodeling
Published on: April 7, 2015
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[Cardiobacterium hominis pericarditis: an unusual case]
José Salinas1, Ailyn Irígoin2, Mario Calvo3
1Universidad Austral de Chile, Chile.
Summary
A hemodialysis patient developed right heart failure due to isolated bacterial pericarditis caused by Cardiobacterium hominis, an HACEK organism. This rare case highlights atypical infections in patients with kidney disease.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Nephrology
Background:
- Patients undergoing hemodialysis are susceptible to various complications, including cardiac issues.
- Bacterial pericarditis is a serious condition that can lead to heart failure.
Observation:
- A male patient on hemodialysis presented with right heart failure.
- Echocardiography showed pericardial effusion with a constrictive pattern, but preserved systolic and diastolic function.
- Pericardial tissue cultures were positive for Cardiobacterium hominis (HACEK group), while blood cultures remained negative.
Findings:
- This case represents a rare instance of isolated bacterial pericarditis caused by an atypical HACEK organism.
- The absence of endocarditis and negative blood cultures make this presentation unusual.
- The study discusses potential infection mechanisms and reviews existing literature on similar cases.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering atypical pericarditis in hemodialysis patients with heart failure.
- Suggests that pericardial tissue cultures are crucial for diagnosing rare bacterial pericarditis.
- Emphasizes the need for further research into HACEK organism infections in immunocompromised populations.
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