Pancarditis: an unusual complication of a group B streptococcal infection

Elisa Larrieu-Ardilouze1, Luc Christiaens1, Nicolas Varroud-Vial1

  • 1a Department of Cardiology and Vascular Diseases , Poitiers University Hospital , Poitiers , France.

Acta Clinica Belgica
|June 30, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Pancarditis, a rare and severe heart inflammation, was successfully treated with medication alone in a healthy woman with Group B Streptococcus infection. Multimodality cardiac imaging aided diagnosis and monitoring.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Medical Imaging

Background:

  • Pancarditis, encompassing endocarditis, myocarditis with abscesses, and purulent pericarditis, is exceptionally rare with a grim prognosis.
  • Diagnosis is frequently delayed, often masked by embolic complication symptoms, and existing literature is limited.

Observation:

  • A unique case of pancarditis occurred in an immunocompetent, healthy 54-year-old woman following a Group B Streptococcus infection.

Findings:

  • The patient experienced a favorable outcome solely through medical management.
  • Multimodality cardiac imaging was crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective follow-up.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the potential for successful medical treatment of pancarditis, even in complex scenarios.
  • Emphasizes the vital role of advanced cardiac imaging in diagnosing and managing rare cardiovascular conditions.

Related Concept Videos

Rheumatic Heart Disease I: Introduction01:23

Rheumatic 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...
647
Pericarditis I: Introduction01:22

Pericarditis I: Introduction

Pericarditis is defined as the inflammation of the pericardium, the thin, sac-like membrane surrounding the heart. This condition can cause significant chest pain and other symptoms, often necessitating medical intervention. The pericardium has two layers: the inner visceral layer and the outer parietal layer, separated by a small amount of fluid that reduces friction during heartbeats.Types of PericarditisPericarditis can be classified into several types based on the duration and nature of the...
517
Pericarditis IV: Nursing Management01:25

Pericarditis IV: Nursing Management

Pericarditis, an inflammation of the pericardium, necessitates diligent nursing management to ensure effective patient care and recovery. The initial step in managing pericarditis is a comprehensive patient medical assessment.The patient reports chest pain aggravated by breathing, coughing, and swallowing, which worsens when lying supine. The pain often improves when sitting up and leaning forward. Additional symptoms may include fever, malaise, and, in severe cases, signs of heart failure.
469
Pericarditis II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests01:19

Pericarditis II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests

Pericarditis is distinguished by inflammation of the pericardium, the fibrous sac that encases the heart. It can be acute, lasting less than six weeks, or chronic, persisting for over three months. Understanding its clinical manifestations and diagnostic findings is crucial for timely and effective management.Clinical ManifestationsWhile pericarditis can be asymptomatic, it usually presents with characteristic symptoms such as:Chest Pain: The most characteristic symptom of pericarditis is chest...
429
Rheumatic Heart Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies01:22

Rheumatic Heart Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies

The key clinical manifestations of Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) include several distinct cardiac symptoms.Carditis, a hallmark of acute rheumatic fever, involves inflammation of the heart's endocardium, myocardium, and pericardium. Chronic RHD often results from recurrent episodes of carditis. Its symptoms include the following:Murmurs are caused by valvular damage, especially to the mitral and aortic valves. Mitral stenosis or regurgitation is common, with characteristic heart murmurs...
776
Rheumatic Heart Disease III: Medical Management01:21

Rheumatic Heart Disease III: Medical Management

Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) management can be divided into two main strategies: prevention and long-term management.Primary PreventionPrimary prevention focuses on timely diagnosis and management of group A streptococcal pharyngitis to prevent acute rheumatic fever. The most widely used antibiotic for treating this condition is intramuscular benzathine penicillin G.Acute Rheumatic Fever TreatmentThe primary treatment goal for a patient diagnosed with acute rheumatic fever is to suppress the...
420