Infective Endocarditis Caused by Abiotrophia Defectiva: A Case Report

Although relatively rare, infective endocarditis (IE) remains a severe disease that is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality especially in case of endocarditis caused by virulent microorganisms on valves in the left side. Appropriate antibiotic therapy is the most important component in the treatment of patients with IE. We report the case of a 67 year-old woman who was admitted for a native left sided IE. Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) showed mitral valve vegetation with a moderate mitral regurgitation. Hemocultures were promptly positive but the identification of the germ needed an automated phenotypic system that isolated Abiotrophia defectiva, which is an exceptional entity. Despite the initiation of an appropriate antibiotic therapy, the patient experienced embolic episodes that prompted the decision for a surgical treatment.