Bacterial endocarditis in mitral leaflet prolapse syndrome

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Mitral leaflet prolapse syndrome is associated with an increased risk of infective endocarditis.
• Subacute bacterial endocarditis can present with prolonged, non-specific symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of subacute bacterial endocarditis in a patient with mitral leaflet prolapse syndrome.
• To highlight unusual complications and successful management of this condition.

Main Methods:

• Diagnosis of subacute bacterial endocarditis based on clinical presentation and investigations.
• Treatment involved a combination of antibiotic therapy and splenectomy.
• Patient education on antibiotic prophylaxis for invasive procedures.

Main Results:

• The patient presented with a three-month history of intermittent fever, chills, and cough.
• Complications included hyperplenism with pancytopenia, pericardial effusion, and disseminated infections.
• Successful treatment led to symptom resolution and discharge.

Conclusions:

• Subacute bacterial endocarditis is a significant complication of mitral leaflet prolapse syndrome.
• Antibiotic prophylaxis is crucial before dental, surgical, or other invasive procedures to prevent endocarditis in susceptible individuals.