Introduction
Infective endocarditis (IE) is an endovascular microbial infection of
cardiovascular structures characterized by vegetation composed of
platelets, fibrin, microorganisms, and inflammatory cells (1). While IE
typically affects left-sided valves, tricuspid valve endocarditis (TVIE)
is increasingly recognized, particularly in intravenous drug users and
patients with cardiac implantable devices. Staphylococcus aureus is the
predominant causative organism in TVIE (3). Diagnosis relies on clinical
manifestations, blood cultures, and echocardiography, with complementary
imaging techniques providing additional information (3). Common symptoms
include fever, pulmonary embolism, and bacteremia, with pulmonary events
present in 80% of cases (3). Septic abortion, a significant cause of
pregnancy-related deaths worldwide, involves infection of the placenta
and can lead to severe complications. Prompt removal of infected tissue,
fluid resuscitation, and antibiotic administration are crucial
treatments (4). Complications can be life-threatening, including
bacteremia, which may progress IE (5). Other severe complications may
include septic arthritis, reactive arthritis, and mitral valve
vegetation. IE is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication
of septic abortion. While uncommon in modern practice due to improved
access to care and the legalization of abortion, cases still occur (6).
Common causative organisms include Streptococcus viridans and
Staphylococcus aureus, but rare pathogens like Escherichia coli have
also been implicated (5).
Herein, we will discuss a case of a 31-year-old female with a diagnosis
of Right-sided IE following septic abortion which necessities the need
of prophylactic antibiotic adherence to sterile techniques during
gynecological procedures.