Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 25, 2026

Isolation of Valvular Endothelial Cells
Published on: December 29, 2010
The first report of Staphylococcus argenteus endocarditis with visualized valve vegetations
Ebba Hillstedt1,2,3,4, Magnus Dencker5,6, Bo Nilson7,8
1Department of Perioperative Medicine and Intensive Care Medicine, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden.
Abstract:
Staphylococcus argenteus was recently defined as a species and has previously often been mistaken for Staphylococcus aureus due to the difficulties of conventional laboratory methods to distinguish the two species. The clinical presentation of infections caused by S. argenteus is largely unknown, and its virulence has since the definition of the species been debated. Here we present, to our knowledge, the first case of infective endocarditis due to S. argenteus with valve vegetations visualized on echocardiography. The 74-year-old male patient with biological aortic valve prothesis presented with a rapid onset of diffuse symptoms and his condition hastily deteriorated to septic shock followed by several complications such as intracranial septic emboli, severe heart failure, and intracardiac thrombus. After conservative treatment and management of the multiple complications, the patient recovered and was eventually discharged to his original housing situation.
Insights
Staphylococcus argenteus, a recently defined species, can cause severe infective endocarditis. This case highlights its potential for rapid deterioration and serious complications, including septic shock and emboli.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiology
Background:
- Staphylococcus argenteus is a recently identified species, often misidentified as Staphylococcus aureus due to diagnostic challenges.
- The clinical manifestations and virulence of S. argenteus infections remain poorly understood.
Observation:
- A 74-year-old male with a biological aortic valve prosthesis developed infective endocarditis caused by S. argenteus.
- Echocardiography revealed valve vegetations, indicative of the infection's severity.
Findings:
- The patient experienced a rapid decline, progressing to septic shock, intracranial septic emboli, severe heart failure, and an intracardiac thrombus.
- Despite the severe presentation, conservative management led to recovery.
Implications:
- This case underscores the clinical significance of S. argenteus as a pathogen.
- It highlights the need for accurate diagnostic methods to differentiate S. argenteus from S. aureus.
- Further research into S. argenteus virulence and clinical spectrum is warranted.
Related Concept Videos
Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
Endocarditis I: Introduction
Endocarditis II: Clinical Features of Infective Endocarditis
Endocarditis III: Medical Management
Endocarditis IV: Nursing Management
Rheumatic Heart Disease I: Introduction

