Infective Endocarditis Caused by Streptococcus sinensis: A Rare but Fatal Infection.

We present a case concerning a 65-year-old, previously healthy gentleman who was found to have infective endocarditis after presenting with a four-month history of constitutional symptoms. Blood tests taken in the community showed elevated inflammatory markers and a deterioration in renal function, which prompted his referral for inpatient investigations. Blood cultures and a transesophageal echocardiogram subsequently confirmed native valve endocarditis affecting both the aortic and mitral valves. Infective endocarditis is common in an infectious disease physician's daily practice, but this particular case is notable since the causative agent, Streptococcus sinensis , is an extremely rare viridans group Streptococcus , which has been reported only sporadically in other European countries. The patient was started on appropriate anti-microbial treatment and was scheduled for surgery to replace both affected valves. He developed signs and symptoms of congestive heart failure after 10 days of anti-microbial treatment and underwent dual valve replacement surgery. Despite optimal anti-microbial therapy and multiorgan support in a cardiac intensive care unit, the patient passed away two weeks after surgery as a result of ventilator-associated pneumonia.
Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work.
(Copyright © 2024, Tabone Adami et al.)