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Published on: February 6, 2021
HISTOPLASMA CAPSULATUM PACEMAKER-RELATED ENDOCARDITIS PRESENTING AS ENDOGENOUS ENDOPHTHALMITIS
Cindy Chen1, Jose A Morillas2, Susan J Rehm2
1Cleveland Clinic Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland, Ohio.
Background/Purpose:
To report a unique case of pacemaker-related infective endocarditis manifesting as endogenous endophthalmitis with chorioretinitis secondary to Histoplasma capsulatum.
Methods:
Case report.
Results:
A 75-year-old man was diagnosed with blood culture-negative infective endocarditis and was admitted with deteriorating vision and ocular inflammation. Examination of the eye indicated significant vitreous inflammation and retinitis. Vitreous cultures were negative, but universal fungal polymerase chain reaction of the vitreous fluid was positive for H. capsulatum. Histopathology of the fibrous cuff around the extracted right atrial lead demonstrated hyphal and yeast forms and polymerase chain reaction of this material identified H. capsulatum. Despite aggressive antifungal and surgical treatment, the eye became phthisical.
Conclusion:
We highlight the importance of considering H. capsulatum in the differential diagnosis of endogenous endophthalmitis, particularly among patients from endemic areas who present with possible endovascular infection.
Insights
This case report details a rare instance of pacemaker-related infective endocarditis caused by Histoplasma capsulatum, leading to endogenous endophthalmitis. Early consideration of fungal causes is crucial for patients with endovascular infections.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiology
Background:
- Pacemaker-related infective endocarditis is a serious complication.
- Endogenous endophthalmitis requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
- Histoplasma capsulatum is an endemic fungus that can cause systemic infections.
Observation:
- A 75-year-old male presented with vision loss and ocular inflammation.
- Blood and vitreous cultures were negative for bacteria, but fungal DNA (Histoplasma capsulatum) was detected in vitreous fluid.
- Histopathology and PCR of the pacemaker lead confirmed Histoplasma capsulatum.
Findings:
- The patient had pacemaker-related infective endocarditis manifesting as endogenous endophthalmitis.
- Histoplasma capsulatum was identified as the causative agent.
- Despite treatment, the ocular condition progressed to phthisis.
Implications:
- Histoplasma capsulatum should be considered in the differential diagnosis of endogenous endophthalmitis, especially in endemic areas.
- This case highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in managing complex infections.
- Early identification and treatment of fungal endocarditis can potentially improve patient outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
Endocarditis I: Introduction
Endocarditis II: Clinical Features of Infective Endocarditis
Pericarditis I: Introduction
Endocarditis III: Medical Management
Endocarditis IV: Nursing Management
Myocarditis I: Introduction

