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Published on: October 16, 2021
Cardiac Imaging and Management of Prosthetic Valve Candida Parapsilosis Endocarditis
Arjun C Khadilkar1, Jesus Diaz Vera1, Juan Enciso1
1Internal Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, USA.
Abstract:
Fungal infective endocarditis is a rare and serious form of endocarditis associated with severe morbidity and mortality. The greatest propensity for infection can be found in patients with implanted prosthetic valves, implanted cardiac devices, and intravenous drug use. We present a case of a 45-year-old male with a prior bioprosthetic mitral valve who was diagnosed with Candida parapsilosis endocarditis. Computed tomography imaging of the abdomen was significant for splenic infarcts, and transesophageal echocardiography demonstrated a 1.23 cm x 0.55 cm lesion and 1.02 cm x 0.545 cm lesion on the bioprosthetic valve. The patient was subsequently treated with Amphotericin B and life-long Fluconazole. This case highlights the imaging findings and treatment of a rare disease process.
Insights
This case study details a rare fungal endocarditis caused by Candida parapsilosis in a patient with a bioprosthetic mitral valve. It highlights key imaging findings and successful treatment strategies for this serious cardiac infection.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Mycology
Background:
- Fungal infective endocarditis is a rare but severe condition with high mortality.
- Patients with prosthetic valves, cardiac devices, or a history of intravenous drug use are at increased risk.
- Candida parapsilosis is an opportunistic pathogen that can cause invasive infections.
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