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Atraumatic suppurative mediastinitis and purulent pericarditis due to Eikenella corrodens
C C Hardy1, S N Raza, B Isalska
1Department of Cardiothoracic Medicine, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester.
Abstract:
Atraumatic suppurative mediastinitis is an uncommon infection. A case with an associated purulent pericarditis caused by Eikenella corrodens is reported.
Insights
Atraumatic suppurative mediastinitis, a rare infection, can lead to purulent pericarditis. This case highlights Eikenella corrodens as a causative agent in this uncommon condition.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiology
- Thoracic Surgery
Background:
- Atraumatic suppurative mediastinitis is a rare clinical entity.
- Mediastinitis can lead to serious complications if not promptly diagnosed and treated.
Observation:
- This report details a rare case of atraumatic suppurative mediastinitis.
- The infection was associated with purulent pericarditis.
Findings:
- Eikenella corrodens was identified as the causative pathogen.
- This bacterium is an uncommon cause of mediastinitis and pericarditis.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering Eikenella corrodens in atraumatic infections of the chest.
- Underscores the potential for mediastinitis to involve the pericardium.
- Emphasizes the need for appropriate microbiological diagnosis in complex thoracic infections.
Related Concept Videos
Endocarditis I: Introduction
Endocarditis II: Clinical Features of Infective Endocarditis
Endocarditis III: Medical Management
Pericarditis I: Introduction
Pericarditis II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
Pericarditis III: Medical Management

