Expect the Unexpected: A Rare Case of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Endocarditis

Abstract

Infective endocarditis (IE) caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa is extremely uncommon. Reported cases have usually been associated with intravenous drug use, prosthetic heart valves, and/or implanted cardiac devices. Traditionally, successful treatment has necessitated a combination of antimicrobial(s) and valve replacement. Yet, P. aeruginosa IE remains difficult to manage, especially in cases where valve replacement may not be an immediate option. We present such a case of P. aeruginosa IE, highlighting that medical management with 2 antipseudomonal synergistic agents may be an alternative to surgery in particularly complicated cases.

Keywords

• Pseudomonas
• Endocarditis
• Aortic
• Bacteremia
• Nosocomial
• Native