Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus pericarditis causing cardiac tamponade

Maedeh Ganji1, Jose Ruiz1, William Kogler2

  • 1University of Florida-COM, Division of Cardiology, Jacksonville, FL, USA.

Idcases
|August 28, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) can cause severe infections. This case highlights a rare instance of MRSA-induced purulent pericarditis, emphasizing the need for vigilance in diagnosing such life-threatening conditions.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Cardiology
  • Internal Medicine

Background:

  • Community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections are a growing concern.
  • Purulent pericarditis is a rare but serious cardiac emergency.
  • Previous reports of MRSA-related purulent pericarditis are extremely limited.

Observation:

  • A 66-year-old female presented with dyspnea, pleuritic chest pain, and chills.
  • The patient had a preceding influenza A infection.
  • Physical examination revealed muffled heart sounds and jugular venous distention.

Findings:

  • Electrocardiogram showed diffuse ST segment elevations and PR segment depressions.
  • Echocardiogram revealed a large pericardial effusion impairing right ventricular filling.
  • Pericardial fluid cultures confirmed MRSA infection.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the potential for MRSA to cause severe cardiac complications like purulent pericarditis.
  • Prompt diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics (e.g., vancomycin) and supportive care are crucial for patient outcomes.
  • The rarity of this condition, even in the antimicrobial era, highlights the importance of considering unusual pathogens in refractory pericarditis.

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