Infective Endocarditis Presenting as Rhabdomyolysis and Muscle Abscess: A Case Report

Rhabdomyolysis is characterized by the degradation of skeletal muscle tissue, which releases cellular contents into circulation. This condition commonly stems from various factors, including trauma, overexertion, muscular hypoxia, infections, metabolic and electrolyte imbalances, certain medications, toxins, and genetic abnormalities. Despite this, instances of rhabdomyolysis precipitated by bacteremia of infective endocarditis remain exceedingly rare. This report describes an unusual case wherein infective endocarditis manifested as rhabdomyolysis, accompanied by a muscular abscess and acute renal failure. The patient's condition was successfully managed through hydration and targeted antibiotic therapy, leading to a favorable recovery. The case underscores the importance of vigilance for extracardiac symptoms and signs of infective endocarditis, such as rhabdomyolysis and muscular abscesses. Of particular note in this case was the discovery of an atypical causal bacterium, Streptococcus dysgalactiae, in the setting of infective endocarditis. This case highlights the broad range of potential manifestations and causal factors associated with this serious cardiac condition.