Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 17, 2025

Visualization of Streptococcus pneumoniae within Cardiac Microlesions and Subsequent Cardiac Remodeling
Published on: April 7, 2015
Sudden death due to infective endocarditis caused by Streptococcus constellatus: A case report
M S Zamasry1, Z Hilmi1, M Y P Mohd Yusof2,3
1National Institute of Forensic Medicine (IPFN), Hospital Kuala Lumpur, 50586 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Abstract:
Infective endocarditis (IE) is a relatively uncommon disease, but has been challenging to diagnose over the years. With the increasing incidence, variety of causative agents and the resistance of microorganisms towards antibiotics, there is still an occurrence of sudden death due to undiagnosed IE. The most common microorganism causing IE is Staphylococcus aureus. However, there is increasing prevalence of other microorganisms causing IE. This case report highlights a case of sudden death due to IE caused by a rare pathogen, Streptococcus constellatus which belongs to the Streptococcus anginosus group (Milleri group). A study noted the crude incidence of IE in 6 world regions ranged between 1.5 and 11.6 cases per 100,000 people. To date, there has been no previous report on sudden death due to IE caused by Streptococcus constellatus in Malaysia, neither in the forensic nor clinical setting. This case report underlined the characteristics and pathological features of this microorganism. The increasing incidence and variety of causative organisms in IE are important public health issues. It is vital for future studies to examine the risk factors of IE related to Streptococcus constellatus, to enhance better understanding, insight and awareness regarding the course of this disease. This in turn may facilitate preventive measures to avoid morbidity and mortality from this condition.
Insights
Infective endocarditis (IE) caused by Streptococcus constellatus can lead to sudden death. This case report details a rare instance of mortality from this infection, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and research into risk factors.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Forensic Pathology
Background:
- Infective endocarditis (IE) presents diagnostic challenges, with increasing incidence and antibiotic resistance contributing to mortality.
- Staphylococcus aureus is the most common cause, but a broader range of pathogens are emerging.
- Sudden death can occur due to undiagnosed IE.
Observation:
- This case report details a rare instance of sudden death attributed to IE caused by Streptococcus constellatus, a member of the Streptococcus anginosus group.
- This pathogen is an uncommon cause of IE, particularly in the Malaysian forensic and clinical settings.
- The report outlines the pathological features associated with this specific microorganism.
Findings:
- Streptococcus constellatus, a rare pathogen, was identified as the cause of infective endocarditis leading to sudden death.
- The incidence of IE varies globally, highlighting its significance as a public health concern.
- This is the first reported case of sudden death due to Streptococcus constellatus IE in Malaysia.
Implications:
- The emergence of diverse causative agents in IE necessitates enhanced diagnostic vigilance.
- Further research into the risk factors associated with Streptococcus constellatus IE is crucial.
- Improved understanding may lead to better prevention strategies and reduced morbidity and mortality from IE.
Related Concept Videos
Endocarditis I: Introduction
Endocarditis II: Clinical Features of Infective Endocarditis
Endocarditis III: Medical Management
Endocarditis IV: Nursing Management
Rheumatic Heart Disease I: Introduction
Myocarditis I: Introduction

