Eustachian Valve Infective Endocarditis: A Rare Consequence of Implanted Venous Access Ports

Abstract

We present a case of eustachian valve endocarditis in an elderly male who presented after removal of a central venous access port. This case report also reviews the prevalence of right sided endocarditis, diagnosis, common microorganisms, predisposing risk factors and medical management. Eustachian valve endocarditis was first described in 1986 by Edwards and from 1986 to 2017, only 37 cases have been reported— 46% of which were caused by intravenous (IV) drug use and 24% by indwelling intravenous lines. Other risk factors for the development of eustachian valve endocarditis include rheumatic heart disease, pacemaker wires and immunologic compromise. This case illustrates the importance of recognizing risk factors other than IV drug use in the pathogenesis of right-sided endocarditis, especially in cases involving the eustachian valve