Non-HACEK Gram-Negative Endocarditis

Infective carditis caused by gram-negative non-HACEK bacteria, long thought to be associated with injection-drug use, is actually healthcare-related.

Gram-negative bacillus infective endocarditis (IE) usually is caused by one of the “HACEK” organisms (Haemophilus spp., Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, Cardiobacterium hominis, Eikenella corrodens, Kingella spp.). Cases attributed to other gram-negative bacilli such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli are rare and generally have been considered to be associated with injection-drug use. Now, as part of the International Collaboration on Endocarditis Prospective Cohort Study, investigators have identified the causative organisms, risk factors, and outcomes for 2761 patients with definite IE. The participants were treated at any of 61 centers in 28 countries between January 2000 and August 2005.

Non-HACEK gram-negative bacilli …

Reviewing Author

Stephen G. Baum, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardClinical Infectious Diseases

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Editorial BoardsMedical Letter

Stephen G. Baum, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardClinical Infectious Diseases

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Editorial BoardsMedical Letter