Abstract
Prosthetic valve endocarditis is a serious complication following valve replacement surgery, with the development of aortic root abscess being a catastrophic manifestation. We present a case of a 71-year-old female with a bioprosthetic aortic valve who presented with shortness of breath. Echocardiographic findings revealed vegetation on the prosthetic aortic valve with a periaortic, annular abscess. Given the patient’s comorbidities and high surgical risk, conservative management with antibiotics was chosen. The patient responded well to antibiotic therapy and was discharged with long-term antibiotic treatment. Prosthetic valve endocarditis, particularly with periaortic abscess formation, is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial for improving outcomes.
Recommended Citation
Elkattawy, Sherif; Romero, Jesus; Romero, Ana L.; Bilali, Erkanda; Turku, David; Abid, Fareeha; Shamoon, Razan; and Shamoon, Fayez
(2024)
"Echocardiographic Features of an Evolving Periaortic Valvular Abscess in a Patient with Staphylococcus Epidermidis Prosthetic Valve Endocarditis,"
Journal of Community Hospital Internal Medicine Perspectives: Vol. 14:
Iss.
3, Article 7.
DOI: 10.55729/2000-9666.1309
Available at:
https://scholarlycommons.gbmc.org/jchimp/vol14/iss3/7
