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Published on: February 11, 2022
[Surgery to Triple Valves for Active Infective Endocarditis Caused by Abiotrophia defectiva:Report of a Case]
Masato Saitoh1, Takuma Yamasaki, Tomoaki Tanabe
1Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Ayase Heart Hospital, Tokyo, Japan.
Abstract:
We experienced a case of infective endocarditis caused by Abiotrophia defectiva in which aortic, mitral, and tricuspid valve surgery was performed. Even if blood cultures are negative, it is important to treat patients with endocarditis considering the possibility that some organisms are difficult to detect via conventional blood culture. Embolism is a complication that should not be overlooked in cases of infective endocarditis, particularly those caused by Abiotrophia defectiva, which tends to cause embolism. As the patient had splenic and cerebral infarction preoperatively, early surgical intervention was performed to prevent further embolisms, and the patient's postoperative course was excellent.
Insights
Infective endocarditis caused by Abiotrophia defectiva requires prompt treatment, even with negative blood cultures. Early surgery is crucial to prevent severe complications like embolism, leading to excellent outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Surgical Medicine
Background:
- Infective endocarditis (IE) poses significant risks, particularly when caused by challenging organisms like Abiotrophia defectiva.
- Conventional blood cultures may fail to detect certain bacteria, complicating diagnosis and treatment of IE.
Observation:
- A case of infective endocarditis involving aortic, mitral, and tricuspid valves due to Abiotrophia defectiva was managed.
- The patient presented with preoperative splenic and cerebral infarction, indicative of embolic events.
Findings:
- Despite negative blood cultures, prompt diagnosis and treatment of Abiotrophia defectiva endocarditis are essential.
- Early surgical intervention, including valve repair/replacement, was critical in preventing further embolisms.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering difficult-to-culture organisms in IE diagnosis.
- Aggressive management, including timely surgery, can mitigate embolic complications and improve patient prognosis in Abiotrophia defectiva endocarditis.
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