Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 5, 2025
Experimental Endocarditis Model of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus MRSA in Rat
Published on: June 4, 2012
Uncommon presentation of Haemophilus parainfluenzae bacteremia: A case study on aortic valve endocarditis
Nasrin Dhapa1, Hannah Rodriguez1, Zachary Visinoni1
1Department of Graduate Medical Education, Internal Medicine Residency Program, Sutter Roseville Medical Center, Roseville, CA, USA.
Abstract:
Haemophilus parainfluenzae, a HACEK organism, is one of five species known to less commonly cause infective endocarditis. This article presents a rare and noteworthy case of H. parainfluenzae endocarditis affecting the aortic valve, seemingly unique when Haemophilus species in endocarditis were previously known to more commonly involve the pulmonic or mitral valves. In the setting of H. parainfluenzae bacteremia, a 61-year-old male with no significant past medical history exhibited subtle systemic symptoms with a paucity of clinical signs associated with endocarditis and no evidence of embolic disease. A thorough workup demonstrated a large vegetation involving the aortic valve causing acute aortic insufficiency necessitating subsequent replacement of the aortic valve. In follow-up appointments with providers, the patient demonstrated excellent recovery returning to his baseline activity within 6 months. This case highlights the importance of considering endocarditis in Haemophilus bacteremia, especially in those with an unclear source of infection. Recognition of these rare presentations can assist with timely diagnosis and appropriate management, thus improving patient outcomes.
Insights
This case report details a rare instance of aortic valve endocarditis caused by Haemophilus parainfluenzae bacteremia. Early recognition of this uncommon presentation is crucial for effective patient management and improved outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Haemophilus parainfluenzae, a HACEK organism, is an uncommon cause of infective endocarditis.
- Previous literature suggests Haemophilus species more frequently affect the pulmonic or mitral valves in endocarditis cases.
Observation:
- A rare case of H. parainfluenzae endocarditis involving the aortic valve is presented.
- The patient, a 61-year-old male, presented with subtle symptoms and minimal clinical signs of endocarditis despite bacteremia.
- No embolic disease was noted, and the infection led to acute aortic insufficiency requiring valve replacement.
Findings:
- H. parainfluenzae bacteremia can manifest as aortic valve endocarditis.
- Diagnosis was confirmed through a thorough workup revealing a large aortic valve vegetation.
- The patient experienced a full recovery within six months post-aortic valve replacement.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering endocarditis in cases of Haemophilus bacteremia, particularly with unclear infection sources.
- Emphasizes the need for timely diagnosis and management of rare endocarditis presentations to improve patient prognosis.
- Underscores that H. parainfluenzae can cause endocarditis on valves other than the pulmonic or mitral valves.
More Related Videos
08:25Visualization of Streptococcus pneumoniae within Cardiac Microlesions and Subsequent Cardiac Remodeling
Published on: April 7, 2015
11:32Following in Real Time the Impact of Pneumococcal Virulence Factors in an Acute Mouse Pneumonia Model Using Bioluminescent Bacteria
Published on: February 23, 2014
