Recurrent infective endocarditis of the mitral valve after orthotopic heart transplantation

Authors

• Peter Snopek Department of Cardiology, Faculty Hospital, Nitra, Slovakia; Faculty of Social Sciences and Health, University of Constantin Philosopher, Nitra, Slovakia
• Jozef Hasilla Department of Cardiology, Faculty Hospital, Nitra, Slovakia; Faculty of Social Sciences and Health, University of Constantin Philosopher, Nitra, Slovakia
• Lukáš Patrovič Jessenius Diagnostic Centre, Nitra, Slovakia
• Dominik Juskanič Jessenius Diagnostic Centre, Nitra, Slovakia
• Jakub Benko Department of Cardiology, Faculty Hospital, Nitra, Slovakia; Department of Internal Medicine I, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine at Comenius University, Martin, Slovakia
• Martin Jozef Péč
• Matej Samoš

benko36@uniba.sk

Keywords

Abstract

Introduction: Orthotopic heart transplantation is the gold standard for the treatment of advanced heart failure in the absence of contraindications. Infective endocarditis is a rare complication in patients after heart transplantation. The treatment of endocarditis after heart transplantation is challenging since there is a need for ongoing immunosuppression.
Case description: We present the case of a 51-year-old orthotopic heart transplant recipient enrolled in a chronic dialysis program, in whom we diagnosed and successfully treated recurrent infective endocarditis of the mitral valve caused by Enterococcus and Enterobacter species. Despite the complicated course of the disease, the treatment was successful.
Conclusions: Recurrent infective endocarditis after heart transplantation can be treated successfully with a multidisciplinary approach and robust antimicrobial therapy.

References