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[Purulent pericarditis in dermatopolymyositis]
S Falcon-Eicher1, J C Eicher, E Collet
1Centre de Cardiologie, Hôpital du Bocage, Dijon.
Annales De Cardiologie Et D'Angeiologie
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Dermatopolymyositis patients can develop Staphylococcus aureus pericarditis, a rare but serious complication. Prompt diagnosis via pericardial fluid analysis is crucial for effective treatment of this persistent pericarditis.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiology
Background:
- Dermatopolymyositis is a rare autoimmune disease affecting skin and muscles.
- Pericardial effusion is an uncommon manifestation in dermatopolymyositis, often responsive to steroid therapy.
Observation:
- A 33-year-old patient with dermatopolymyositis presented with acute cystic pericarditis, fever, and declining health.
- Surgical drainage and analysis of pericardial fluid identified purulent Staphylococcus aureus pericarditis.
Findings:
- The case highlights a rare instance of septic pericarditis in a patient with dermatopolymyositis.
- Staphylococcus aureus was identified as the causative agent of the purulent pericarditis.
Implications:
- Persistent pericarditis in dermatopolymyositis patients warrants consideration of septic contamination, despite rarity.
- Early etiological diagnosis through pericardial fluid analysis is vital for managing this severe complication.