Unusual subacute endocarditis following herpes zoster infection. a case report

Abstract

Abstract Objective This paper presents a rare case of subacute bacterial endocarditis (SBE) following a herpes zoster (HZ) episode, with no prior records found in the existing literature. Patient information Specifically, we describe a case of a 76-year-old female whose diagnosis of SBE was hindered by the concurrent manifestation of HZ symptoms, which had emerged 3 weeks before the onset of SBE indicators. Follow-up and outcomes This delay in diagnosis resulted in profound complications, including a cerebrovascular accident and significant mitral valve destruction. Discussion HZ episodes have not conventionally been linked in the medical literature to the occurrence of SBE. Nonetheless, it is noteworthy that HZ infections have been associated with the development of other consequential bacterial infections, such as pneumonia and necrotizing fasciitis. This case underscores the necessity for medical practitioners to recognize the possibility of HZ symptoms obscuring indications of critical underlying conditions and infections. The implications of this report highlight the significance of maintaining heightened vigilance for signs of other severe infections when managing patients presenting with HZ symptoms.