Right-Sided Endocarditis Secondary to Aeromonas hydrophila: A Case Report

Abstract

Right-sided endocarditis represents a distinct clinical condition observed in individuals with a history of parenteral drug use or those with implanted pacemakers or other intracardiac devices. Aeromonas infections, although uncommon in humans, particularly endocarditis cases, are exceedingly rare. Here, we report the case of a 72-year-old female with a medical history of arterial hypertension and chronic kidney disease undergoing hemodialysis via a tunneled permanent central venous catheter. She presented with chills and a fever of 38.3°C. Physical examination revealed a grade 3 protosystolic murmur at the tricuspid focus. Blood cultures from central and peripheral sites yielded growth of Aeromonas hydrophila. Transthoracic echocardiography demonstrated a fusiform, semi-mobile vegetation measuring 16 x 15 mm at the outlet of the superior vena cava, suggestive of endocarditis. Intravenous fluoroquinolones were initiated based on antibiogram results, leading to resolution of imaging findings after a 21-day treatment course.