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Endocarditis due to Neisseria sicca: report of one case
H C Chao1, C H Chiu, Y C Huang
1Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Children's Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan, R.O.C.
Abstract:
Many species of the Neisseria, which are respiratory commensals in humans, have been regarded as being nonpathogenic or as causing disease in only immunocompromised hosts. We report a case in which Neisseria sicca was the cause of infective endocarditis in a child with a ventricular septal defect and review the literature on endocarditis due to N. sicca infection. Most of these patients had an underlying heart disease. Dental caries and poor oral hygiene may be two factors that predispose patients to the infection. N. sicca endocarditis usually results in a subacute onset of symptoms and, if not diagnosed early and treated, is associated with a high rate of embolic complications.
Insights
Neisseria sicca, typically a harmless bacterium, can cause infective endocarditis, especially in children with heart defects. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent serious embolic complications.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Neisseria species are common human respiratory commensals, often considered nonpathogenic or opportunistic pathogens in immunocompromised individuals.
- Infective endocarditis is a serious infection of the heart's inner lining, often affecting individuals with pre-existing cardiac conditions.
Observation:
- This report details a rare case of infective endocarditis caused by Neisseria sicca in a pediatric patient with a ventricular septal defect.
- A literature review indicates that underlying heart disease is a common comorbidity in patients with N. sicca endocarditis.
Findings:
- Dental caries and poor oral hygiene are identified as potential predisposing factors for N. sicca infections.
- Neisseria sicca endocarditis typically presents with subacute symptoms and carries a significant risk of embolic complications if not promptly diagnosed and managed.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential pathogenicity of Neisseria sicca in susceptible populations, particularly those with congenital heart defects.
- Emphasizes the importance of considering less common pathogens in infective endocarditis and the need for vigilant oral hygiene in cardiac patients.