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Q fever endocarditis: a diagnostic challenge in a complex cardiological case
Riccardo Rovelli1, Elisa Brangi1, Francesca Capasso1
1Cardiovascular Disease Section, Department of Medical-Surgical Specialty, Radiology and Health Care, School of Medicine, Spedali Civili Hospital, Brescia.
Summary
Q fever endocarditis is a rare but critical cause of blood culture-negative endocarditis. Early diagnosis of Coxiella burnetii infection is vital for prompt management and improved outcomes in patients with suspected endocarditis.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiology
- Diagnostics
Background:
- Q fever endocarditis is a rare condition.
- It is the most common cause of endocarditis with persistently negative blood cultures.
- Diagnosis remains challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the diagnostic challenges of Q fever endocarditis.
- To emphasize the importance of considering Q fever in blood culture-negative endocarditis.
- To underscore the need for rapid diagnosis.
Main Methods:
- Case presentation of a 73-year-old woman.
- Echocardiography to identify cardiac mass.
- Serological testing for Coxiella burnetii.
Main Results:
- Echocardiography showed a mitral valve mass.
- Blood cultures were negative.
- Serology confirmed Coxiella burnetii infection (IgG phase I 1:128).
Conclusions:
- Q fever endocarditis requires consideration in blood culture-negative endocarditis.
- Prompt diagnosis using advanced techniques is crucial.
- This case illustrates the challenges and fatal outcome.
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