Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 7, 2025

Visualization of Streptococcus pneumoniae within Cardiac Microlesions and Subsequent Cardiac Remodeling
Published on: April 7, 2015
A fatal case of infective endocarditis complicated by acute COVID-19 pneumonia
Anmol Pandey1, William R Davies2, Patrick A Calvert2
1North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust, Peterborough City Hospital, Peterborough, UK.
Abstract:
A 74-year-old man with no co-morbidities presented to hospital with a 3-day history of diarrhoea and vomiting. He met the modified Duke's criteria for definite infective endocarditis and was immediately started on an intravenous antibiotic. Over Days 1-9, he developed renal failure. On Day 10, he was transferred to a tertiary hospital for mitral valve replacement. However, he tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 on arrival at the tertiary hospital, which delayed his surgery. He underwent bi-weekly nasopharyngeal swabs for SARS-CoV-2 with a plan to operate as soon as he tested negative, or as soon as his incubation period for COVID-19 pneumonia had elapsed. Unfortunately, he died on Day 31 from acute respiratory distress syndrome secondary to COVID-19 pneumonia. We describe the challenges in deciding on the optimal timing for valve replacement. We conclude by suggesting that earlier valve replacement may result in better outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
Endocarditis I: Introduction
Endocarditis II: Clinical Features of Infective Endocarditis
Endocarditis IV: Nursing Management
Endocarditis III: Medical Management
Pneumonia III: Complications and Assessment
Myocarditis III: Medical Management

