SUB ACUTE HAEMOPHILUS PARAINFLUENZAE ENDOCARDITIS: A CASE REPORT AND REVIEW OF LITERATURE

Haemophilus species are an infrequent cause of subacute bacterial endocarditis. They are fastidious Gram-negative bacteria belonging to the oropharyngeal microflora, and are slow-growing their growth is enhanced by the presence of carbon dioxide. Herein, we describe the case of a 19-year-old male with no relevant medical history who was admitted for fever and general symptoms and was found to have sub acute native mitral endocarditis secondary to H. parainfluenzae. He underwent successful mitral valve repair with good long term outcomes. This case also highlights the ability of a rare bacterium, Haemophilus parainfluenzae, to cause a sub acute septic process and multiple complications including septic emboli. Early identification of this bacterium from blood cultures and early transoesophageal echocardiography is essential for obtaining the diagnosis and allowing early start of adequate treatment.