Clinical Characteristics and Outcome of Brucella Endocarditis: A Case Series.

Abstract

Purpose:  Brucella endocarditis is a rare complication with a high mortality risk. This research aims to evaluate patients diagnosed with Brucella Endocarditis and review clinical characteristics, diagnosis, and treatment strategies to serve as a foundation for future research in managing Brucella endocarditis and improving patient care and outcomes.

Patients and methods: This retrospective study reviewed the medical records of patients diagnosed with Brucella endocarditis from 2011 to 2022. The study included patients of all ages and genders who were diagnosed based on positive serum serology or blood culture in conjunction with clinical presentation. Diagnostic criteria for endocarditis were based on evidence of endocardial involvement, as confirmed by echocardiographic findings consistent with infective endocarditis. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis.

Results: Nine patients were included in this study. The most common presenting symptom was shortness of breath. Treatment regimens included Doxycycline and Rifampicin, always in combination with other antibiotics. Surgical intervention was necessary for two-thirds of the patients. Complications, such as septic shock, stroke, and heart failure, were observed in most cases. Six patients achieved clinical and microbiological cures, while one-third of the patients died. The deaths were primarily attributed to patients being deemed unsuitable for surgery due to a high surgical risk, based on their comorbidities and clinical assessments.

Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of initiating an appropriate antibiotic regimen in a timely manner. Particularly in patients with pre-existing heart diseases, surgical intervention can significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce complications associated with Brucella endocarditis.