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Published on: January 18, 2011
Polymicrobial bacterial pericarditis with mediastinitis after endotracheal intubation
1Department of Internal Medicine, Lotung Poh-Ai Hospital, I-Lan, Taiwan, Republic of China.
Abstract:
Polymicrobial bacterial pericarditis with mediastinitis after traumatic endotracheal intubation is an unusual condition. We report a 54-year-old man, a victim of nasopharyngeal carcinoma, who developed pericardial effusion with tamponade after traumatic endotracheal intubation. The diagnosis of polymicrobial bacterial pericarditis was made when pericardiocentesis revealed purulent fluid that grew a mixed culture of anaerobic and aerobic bacteria, reflecting the normal upper airway flora. By bronchoscopic study, a laceration over the lower trachea was detected. The patient received prolonged aggressive antibiotic therapy and pericardial drainage. The infection improved, but the patient later died from another episode of nosocomial infection.
Insights
Traumatic endotracheal intubation can lead to rare polymicrobial bacterial pericarditis and mediastinitis. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing this severe complication.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiology
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Polymicrobial bacterial pericarditis and mediastinitis are rare complications.
- Traumatic endotracheal intubation can lead to serious infections.
Observation:
- A 54-year-old man with nasopharyngeal carcinoma developed pericardial effusion and tamponade post-intubation.
- Pericardiocentesis revealed purulent fluid with mixed aerobic and anaerobic bacteria.
- Bronchoscopy identified a tracheal laceration.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with polymicrobial bacterial pericarditis and mediastinitis.
- Treatment involved aggressive antibiotics and pericardial drainage.
- The initial infection improved, but the patient succumbed to a subsequent nosocomial infection.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for severe infectious complications following traumatic intubation.
- Early recognition and intervention are critical for patient outcomes.
- Upper airway flora can cause serious infections in the pericardial and mediastinal spaces.
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