Transient hilar lymphadenopathy due to bacterial endocarditis

Transient hilar and mediastinal lymphadenopathy accompanying right-sided bacterial endocarditis without concurrent roentgenographically-demonstrable pulmonary parenchymal abnormalities has not, to our knowledge, been previously reported. The roentgenographic finding of hilar or mediastinal lymphadenopathy should not be considered incompatible with the diagnosis of bacterial endocarditis in the appropriate clinical setting. Possible mechanisms for the development of lymphadenopathy secondary to bacterial endocarditis are discussed.