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Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis Mimicking Infective Endocarditis: A Case Report
Yusra Ansari1, Saad Ali Ansari2, Fawaz Mohammed1
1Internal Medicine, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Bowling Green, USA.
Cureus
|November 4, 2024
Summary
Granulomatosis with polyangiitis, a rare systemic vasculitis, can mimic infective endocarditis. This case highlights the diagnostic challenge due to overlapping symptoms, emphasizing the need for thorough evaluation.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is a rare systemic vasculitis affecting small- and medium-sized vessels.
- GPA presents with necrotizing granulomatous inflammation, leading to diverse clinical manifestations.
Observation:
- A 46-year-old male with chronic sinusitis and a recent tooth infection was initially suspected of having infective endocarditis.
- The patient's presentation included symptoms that overlapped significantly with infective endocarditis.
Findings:
- Comprehensive workup revealed diagnostic findings consistent with granulomatosis with polyangiitis.
- GPA was confirmed despite the initial suspicion of infective endocarditis.
Implications:
- This case underscores the critical importance of differentiating GPA from infective endocarditis due to similar clinical presentations.
- Accurate diagnosis is essential for appropriate management and to avoid complications associated with misdiagnosis of these distinct conditions.
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