A case of culture-negative endocarditis causing flail perforated mitral valve

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Valvular Heart Disease

Background:

• Endocarditis is an infection of the heart lining or valves.
• Culture-negative endocarditis presents diagnostic challenges due to negative blood cultures.

Observation:

• A patient presented with recurrent heart failure admissions.
• The underlying cause was identified as culture-negative endocarditis.
• Mitral valve perforations were observed as a complication.

Findings:

• The case illustrates a severe presentation of culture-negative endocarditis.
• Mitral valve perforation significantly contributed to the patient's heart failure.
• Recurrent admissions underscore the persistent impact of undiagnosed or inadequately treated endocarditis.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of considering endocarditis even with negative cultures.
• Emphasizes the need for advanced diagnostic methods in suspected cases.
• Underscores the critical role of timely intervention to prevent severe valvular damage and heart failure.