Listeria-associated pericarditis in an AIDS patient

Listeria monocytogenes is a pathogenic, facultative intracellular gram-positive rod, generally seen in cell-mediated immunocompromised states. In acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), it most commonly presents as bacteremia or meningitis. An association with pericarditis has not been described previously in this group of patients. This article describes a case of pericarditis secondary to listeriosis involving a focal pancarditis and necrosis of the A-V node with subsequent refractory ventricular tachyarrhythmias in an immunodeficient patient presenting with altered mental status. Infectious etiologies should be considered for "benign" appearing pericardial effusions in AIDS patients and the diagnosis of listeriosis excluded in the presence of "diphtheroid-like" organisms.