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Published on: April 7, 2015
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.
Abstract:
Pancarditis is a rare condition with a poor prognosis combining endocarditis, myocarditis with abscess formation, and purulent pericarditis. Diagnosis is often delayed and the clinical signs are predominantly those of the embolic complications. Literature is scarce. We present a unique and rare case of pancarditis, complicating a Streptococcal B infection in an immunocompetent, healthy, 54 year-old woman. The evolution was favourable under medical therapy alone and thanks to multimodality cardiac imaging diagnosis and follow-up.
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.
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