Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans endocarditis in a patient with a prosthetic aortic valve
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Abstract:
Bacterial endocarditis caused by Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans is a rare disease. A 48-year-old man who had a Starr-Edwards aortic valve prosthesis inserted in 1972 was admitted for evaluation of confusion, headaches, anorexia, weight loss, diarrhea and weakness. Six blood cultures yielded gram-negative organisms which were subsequently identified as A. actinomycetemcomitans. Treatment with ampicillin and gentamicin resulted in cure which has been maintained after an observation period of eleven months. This represents the second report of A. actinomycetemcomitans endocarditis in a patient with a prosthetic valve.
Insights
Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans bacterial endocarditis is rare, especially in prosthetic valve patients. Prompt antibiotic treatment with ampicillin and gentamicin led to a successful cure in this case.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Bacterial endocarditis is a serious infection affecting heart valves.
- Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans is an uncommon cause of endocarditis.
- Prosthetic valve endocarditis presents unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
Observation:
- A 48-year-old male with a Starr-Edwards aortic valve prosthesis presented with systemic symptoms including confusion and weight loss.
- Blood cultures identified gram-negative bacteria as Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans.
- This case is the second reported instance of A. actinomycetemcomitans endocarditis in a patient with a prosthetic valve.
Findings:
- Successful treatment of Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans endocarditis was achieved using ampicillin and gentamicin.
- The patient remained cured after an eleven-month follow-up period, indicating treatment efficacy.
- Early identification and appropriate antibiotic therapy are crucial for managing rare endocarditis cases.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering rare pathogens in prosthetic valve endocarditis.
- Effective antibiotic regimens can lead to favorable outcomes even in complex cases.
- Further research into A. actinomycetemcomitans pathogenesis and treatment is warranted.