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Endocarditis caused by Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans
Southern Medical Journal
|September 1, 1979
Abstract:
A case of endocarditis caused by Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans is described and 18 cases are reviewed. Clinical features of endocarditis caused by A actinomycetemcomitans and antibiotic susceptibility are reviewed. Because of the relative resistance of A actinomycetemcomitans to penicillin and ampicillin, high doses of either penicillin or ampicillin should be combined with streptomycin or gentamicin for four to six weeks.
Insights
Endocarditis caused by Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans is rare. Treatment requires high-dose penicillin or ampicillin combined with streptomycin or gentamicin for prolonged periods.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Endocarditis is an infection of the heart's inner lining, often affecting heart valves.
- Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans is a bacterium that can cause serious infections, including endocarditis.
Observation:
- This review details a case of endocarditis caused by Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans and analyzes 18 previously reported cases.
- Clinical manifestations of Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans endocarditis were examined.
Findings:
- Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans exhibits relative resistance to penicillin and ampicillin.
- Effective treatment necessitates high-dose penicillin or ampicillin in combination with aminoglycosides like streptomycin or gentamicin.
Implications:
- Prolonged antibiotic therapy (four to six weeks) is crucial for successful outcomes.
- Understanding the antibiotic susceptibility patterns of Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans is vital for guiding clinical management.