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Microscopy-based Assays for High-throughput Screening of Host Factors Involved in Brucella Infection of Hela Cells
Published on: August 5, 2016
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Brucella involving the heart: a hidden disease
Tabbah Randa1, Ephrem Christelle2, Rachoin Rachoin3
1Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Notre Dame, Secours University Hospital Jbeil and the Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, Rue 93, Hboub-St Charbel B.P.3, Jbeil, Lebanon. randa_22tabbah@hotmail.com.
Summary
Brucellosis can cause severe heart valve damage, including abscesses, even after initial treatment. Early diagnosis and combined medical-surgical intervention are crucial for successful outcomes in Brucella endocarditis.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Valvular Heart Disease
Background:
- Brucellosis is a systemic infection with potential for severe cardiac complications, primarily endocarditis.
- Brucella endocarditis, though rare, can affect native, prosthetic, or congenital valves and is associated with large vegetations and abscess formation.
Observation:
- An 80-year-old male with a history of poorly treated brucellosis presented with symptoms of heart failure.
- Physical examination revealed an aortic murmur, and echocardiography identified calcified aortic stenosis with a non-coronary cusp abscess.
- Blood cultures were negative, but high Brucella antibody titers (1/2560) supported the diagnosis.
Findings:
- The patient received a four-drug antibiotic regimen and underwent successful aortic valve replacement surgery.
- Post-operative echocardiography showed a moderate periprosthetic aortic leak.
- The patient was discharged on a three-month antibiotic course with good follow-up.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering Brucella endocarditis in patients with a history of brucellosis and cardiac symptoms.
- Prompt diagnosis and a combination of medical and surgical management are essential for improving prognosis.
- Challenges in diagnosis timing underscore the need for heightened clinical suspicion in endemic areas.
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