Infective Endocarditis Secondary to Needle Embolization to the Heart: A Case Report.

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Radiology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Intravenous drug use (IVDU) is associated with unique complications, including needle embolism.
• Needle emboli in the heart present with varied symptoms, often leading to diagnostic challenges and underrecognition.
• The co-occurrence of needle embolisms with infective endocarditis and sepsis complicates patient management.

Observation:

• A 31-year-old female with a history of IVDU presented with palpitations and shortness of breath.
• CT imaging revealed lung lesions and a needle lodged in the right ventricle.
• The patient was treated for methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) bacteremia and underwent VATS for lung complications.

Findings:

• Surgical removal of the right ventricular needle was deemed excessively risky.
• The patient's complex presentation highlighted challenges in managing IV drug-related cardiac complications.
• Despite medical recommendations, the patient left rehabilitation without follow-up, underscoring difficulties in long-term care.

Implications:

• Heightened clinical awareness is essential for diagnosing and managing rare needle embolisms in IVDU patients.
• A proactive and informed approach is critical for improving patient outcomes in complex cases.
• Continuous education for healthcare professionals is necessary to address evolving challenges in IVDU-related complications.