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The Development of Lyophilized Loop-mediated Isothermal Amplification Reagents for the Detection of Coxiella burnetii
Published on: April 18, 2016
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A Rare Presentation of Q Fever Endocarditis
Carlos Gutierrez Garibay1, Kristy Leker1, Annam Zahid1
1Eisenhower Medical Center, Rancho Mirage, CA, USA.
Journal of Investigative Medicine High Impact Case Reports
|December 23, 2025
Summary
Q fever endocarditis, caused by Coxiella burnetii, typically affects males and those with heart conditions. This case highlights an atypical presentation in an elderly female, emphasizing early diagnosis for better outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Q fever endocarditis is caused by Coxiella burnetii, often aerosolized.
- It disproportionately affects males with negative blood cultures, animal contact, and pre-existing valvular heart disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report an unusual case of culture-negative Q fever endocarditis.
- To highlight the importance of considering atypical presentations in diagnosis and management.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 73-year-old female with atypical Q fever endocarditis.
- Review of clinical presentation, diagnostic workup, and treatment course.
Main Results:
- The patient, a female without prior valvular disease or known animal exposure, presented with symptoms mimicking community-acquired pneumonia complications.
- Diagnosis of Q fever endocarditis was confirmed despite negative blood cultures.
- The patient required transfer to a tertiary care center for advanced management.
Conclusions:
- Q fever endocarditis can present atypically, even in patients without typical risk factors.
- Early detection and prompt, interdisciplinary treatment are crucial to reduce the high mortality associated with Q fever endocarditis.
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