Work

First Reported Case of Actinomyces oris Endocarditis and Bacteremia in the United States: A Case Report

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction: Actinomyces are Gram-positive bacilli found as normal flora in the oral, urogenital, and gastrointestinal tracts. Actinomyces causing endocarditis is extremely rare, with only one prior case of Actinomyces oris endocarditis reported in 2020 in Thailand. We present the first case ever reported in the United States. Case Description: We present a 58-year-old African American woman with multiple comorbidities, including end-stage renal disease, on hemodialysis who presented with altered mentation. On investigations, she had Actinomyces oris bacteremia, with echocardiography revealing mitral valve vegetation. She was treated with IV antibiotics followed by oral amoxicillin-clavulanic acid. Discussion: Our case highlights the diagnostic challenges posed by slow-growing organisms like Actinomyces oris in patients with comorbidities, especially on hemodialysis. Blood cultures and transesophageal echocardiography were critical in diagnosing this case. Advanced microbial diagnostic techniques are crucial in identifying the pathogen and the pathogen's susceptibility-guided treatment. This case highlights the importance of early recognition and tailored therapy for rare pathogens like Actinomyces oris.

Source: Journal of Community Hospital Internal Medicine Perspectives

DOI: 10.55729/2000-9666.1469

Authors: Hajra Nosheen, Josephine R Pitasari, Khaled Almorsy, Shagufta N Ali

Institutions: McLaren Regional Medical Center, McLaren Health Care, Michigan State University

Language: English

Topic: Infective Endocarditis Diagnosis and Management

Subfield: Epidemiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $500