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Published on: April 7, 2015
Post-Streptococcus mitis infection polyserositis
Paula Grech1, Jessica Mangion2, Sandro Vella3
1General Medicine, Mater Dei Hospital, Msida, Malta paulagrech93@gmail.com.
Abstract:
We report a case of a 42-year-old man who presented with acute epigastric and retrosternal chest pain and exertional dyspnoea, and was subsequently diagnosed with polyserositis secondary to post-Streptococcal mitis infection. A CT scan showed a large pericardial effusion requiring pericardiocentesis, small bilateral pleural effusions and small amount of ascites. Several serological tests were done, which were all found to be normal. Pericardial and pleural fluid aspirates revealed an exudate. Culture of the pleural fluid yielded growth of S. mitis and this was deemed the cause of the polyserositis, which is rare. The patient made a spontaneous recovery. He was started on colchicine by the cardiologists to help prevent pericardial fluid recurrence and this was continued for 3 months. A dental review confirmed the presence of dental caries, the possible source of infection. On follow-up, the patient remained well with no further relapses.
Insights
A rare case of polyserositis, a multi-cavity inflammation, was diagnosed in a 42-year-old man following a post-Streptococcal mitis infection. Dental caries were identified as the likely source of this uncommon condition.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Polyserositis is a rare condition characterized by inflammation of multiple serous membranes.
- Post-infectious sequelae, particularly from bacterial infections, can manifest as polyserositis.
- Streptococcal infections are common, but their association with polyserositis is infrequently reported.
Related Concept Videos
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Etiology
Three primary contributing factors have been identified.
Myocarditis I: Introduction
Myocarditis III: Medical Management

