Chlamydia psittaci endocarditis: A case report and literature review

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Published on: September 20, 2018

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Imane Bendjelloul1, Julie Lourtet-Hascoët2, Jean-Louis Galinier3

  • 1Infectious Diseases Mobile Unit, Clinique Pasteur, Toulouse, France.

Infectious Diseases Now
|February 26, 2023
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Blood-culture-negative infective endocarditis (BCNE) caused by Chlamydia psittaci is rare but underdiagnosed. Diagnosis requires considering animal contact and using PCR on valve or vertebral samples when blood cultures are negative.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Cardiology
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Blood-culture-negative infective endocarditis (BCNE) accounts for a significant proportion of infective endocarditis (IE) cases.
  • Diagnosing IE and vertebral osteomyelitis caused by Chlamydia species presents diagnostic challenges.

Observation:

  • This report details the first documented case of Chlamydia psittaci IE, initially presenting as spondylodiscitis.
  • Diagnostic confirmation involved patient history, imaging, serological tests, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on valve tissue.

Findings:

  • Chlamydia psittaci IE, though uncommon, is likely underdiagnosed.
  • Clinical suspicion should be raised in IE cases with negative blood cultures, especially with relevant patient history.
  • PCR analysis of cardiac valves or vertebral samples is crucial for definitive diagnosis.

Implications:

  • Highlights the importance of considering Chlamydia psittaci in the differential diagnosis of BCNE.
  • Emphasizes the value of thorough patient history, particularly regarding animal exposure.
  • Underscores the utility of molecular diagnostic techniques like PCR for confirming rare IE pathogens.
Keywords:
Chlamydia psittaciInfective endocarditisPCRVertebral osteomyelitis

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