Cardiac Device-Related Infective Endocarditis Caused by Salmonella Infantis-Case Report and Review of Clinical and Epidemiologic Implications.

BACKGROUND

Salmonella enterica serovar Infantis (S. Infantis) is a widespread pathogen in agriculture, causing epidemics in chicken flocks. Despite being primarily an animal pathogen, it may pose significant health risks to immunocompromised individuals.

METHODS

This report describes the first known case of cardiac device-related infective endocarditis (CDRIE) attributed to S. Infantis, highlighting its emerging pathogenic potential. It also reviews the literature for microbiologic and epidemiologic perspectives.

RESULTS

A 61-year-old male with a history of high-grade multiple myeloma presented with nonspecific symptoms, including low-grade fever and exertional dyspnoea. Blood cultures identified a pure culture of S. Infantis, and transoesophageal echocardiography revealed vegetations on pacing leads. Following pacemaker extraction and appropriate antimicrobial therapy, the patient's condition temporary improved, but later deteriorated due to the progression of underlying malignancy.

CONCLUSIONS

This case underscores the importance of considering S. Infantis in the differential diagnosis of endocarditis in immunocompromised patients, along with the critical need for stringent food safety measures to mitigate infection risks from contaminated poultry products.