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Infective endocarditis in French Polynesia: Epidemiology, treatments and outcomes
Virginie Blanchard1, Bruno Pagis2, Rainui Richaud2
1Department of Cardiology, Rangueil University Hospital, 31059 Toulouse, France; Cardiac Imaging Centre, Toulouse University Hospital, 31400 Toulouse, France; Department of Nuclear Medicine, Rangueil University Hospital, 31059 Toulouse, France; Heart Valve Centre, Toulouse University Hospital, 31400 Toulouse, France.
Archives of Cardiovascular Diseases
|February 20, 2020
Summary
Infective endocarditis (IE) in French Polynesia shows unique patterns, with rheumatic heart disease being a primary factor. Limited access to emergency heart surgery significantly impacts patient survival rates.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Limited data exists on infective endocarditis (IE) in French Polynesia, a French overseas collectivity.
- This study addresses the lack of epidemiological and outcome data for IE in the South Pacific region.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the epidemiology and outcomes of infective endocarditis (IE) in French Polynesia.
- To identify risk factors and treatment challenges for IE in this unique population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of hospital records for patients diagnosed with IE (I330) at Taaone Hospital, Tahiti, between 2015 and 2018.
- Inclusion of 105 patients confirmed with IE according to modified Duke criteria, with a median follow-up of 71 days.
Main Results:
- The study identified 105 IE cases, with a mean age of 55 years and a male predominance (65%).
- Common causes included staphylococcal (38%), streptococcal (30%), and enterococcal (6%) IE. Cardiogenic shock, septic shock, and cerebral complications were associated with increased mortality.
- A significant proportion (69%) had indications for surgery, but only 36% received it, and lack of surgery was linked to higher mortality.
Conclusions:
- Infective endocarditis in French Polynesia presents differently from Western countries, with postrheumatic valvular disease as a major underlying condition.
- Challenges in accessing emergency heart surgery remain a critical issue affecting outcomes for IE patients in the region.
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