Native-valve endocarditis due to CDC coryneform group ANF-3: report of a case and review of corynebacterial endocarditis.

Endocarditis due to a bacterium of CDC coryneform group ANF-3 developed in the native aortic valve of a patient without predisposing factors other than valvular calcification. A review of the literature indicates that corynebacteria are an increasingly important cause of endocarditis. Problems in identification and treatment remain. Techniques for the culture and quick identification of these organisms and effective regimens for treatment of the infections they cause are needed.