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Published on: December 11, 2017
Subacute pericardial abscess after aortic valve replacement: a case report
Ilenia Magnani1, Alberto Spadotto1, Pasquale Paolisso1
1Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine-DIMES (Padiglione 23), University of Bologna, Via Giuseppe Massarenti 9, 40138, Bologna, Italy.
Background:
Purulent pericarditis is an infectious disease, frequently caused by gram-positive bacteria, that is rarely observed in healthy individuals, and is often associated with predisposing conditions.
Case Presentation:
Here, we present the case of an Escherichia coli post-surgical localized purulent pericarditis complicated by transient constrictive pericarditis and its diagnostic and therapeutic management.
Conclusions:
Our case report focuses on the importance of imaging-guided treatment of purulent pericardial diseases, in particular on the emerging role of 18 F-labelled 2-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography in pericardial diseases and on the management of transient constrictive pericarditis, often seen after thoracic surgery.
Insights
Purulent pericarditis, an infection of the pericardium, is rare. This case highlights imaging-guided treatment and the role of 18F-FDG PET/CT in managing Escherichia coli pericarditis and transient constrictive pericarditis.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Purulent pericarditis is a rare bacterial infection, often linked to predisposing factors.
- Gram-positive bacteria are common culprits, but other pathogens can be involved.
Observation:
- A case of Escherichia coli-induced localized purulent pericarditis post-surgery.
- The patient developed transient constrictive pericarditis, requiring careful management.
Findings:
- Successful diagnosis and treatment utilizing imaging guidance.
- 18F-FDG PET/CT demonstrated value in diagnosing and managing pericardial diseases.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of advanced imaging in purulent pericarditis.
- Provides insights into managing transient constrictive pericarditis after thoracic surgery.
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