[Mitral Valve Infective Endocarditis Caused by Parvimonas Micra]

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Cardiology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Infective endocarditis (IE) is a serious infection of the heart valves.
• Parvimonas micra, a Gram-positive anaerobic coccus, is an uncommon cause of IE.
• Colorectal cancer has been identified as a potential source for Parvimonas micra IE.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of infective endocarditis caused by Parvimonas micra originating from colorectal cancer.
• To highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in managing such cases.
• To emphasize the importance of identifying the source of infection for effective treatment.

Main Methods:

• A 78-year-old female patient presented with symptoms suggestive of IE and stroke.
• Diagnostic workup included transthoracic echocardiography and abdominal computed tomography (CT).
• The patient underwent urgent cardiac surgery followed by abdominal surgery for colorectal cancer resection.

Main Results:

• Transthoracic echocardiography revealed mitral regurgitation and a vegetation on the mitral valve.
• Abdominal CT showed a mass lesion suggestive of colorectal cancer.
• Blood cultures confirmed the presence of Parvimonas micra, and the patient successfully recovered after surgical treatment and rehabilitation.

Conclusions:

• Parvimonas micra can cause infective endocarditis, and colorectal cancer is a potential source.
• Multidisciplinary management involving cardiology, cardiac surgery, and oncology is crucial for successful outcomes.
• Early diagnosis and treatment of both IE and the underlying malignancy are essential for patient recovery.