The Role of Point-of-Care Ultrasound in the Emergency Department in the Diagnosis and Management of Infective Endocarditis

Cureus. 2024 Jun 25;16(6):e63107. doi: 10.7759/cureus.63107. eCollection 2024 Jun.

Abstract

Infective endocarditis (IE) is a serious cardiovascular condition with the potential to lead to severe valvular regurgitation. We present a case of a 65-year-old male who presented with a fever and was diagnosed with IE through point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS). The patient's condition subsequently led to severe aortic regurgitation. Timely diagnosis facilitated by POCUS played a crucial role in the management of this case. The patient underwent successful timely surgical intervention to prevent further infective embolism and heart failure due to severe acute aortic regurgitation. This case underscores the pivotal role of POCUS in the early diagnosis and multidisciplinary management of cardiology diseases, highlighting its importance in delivering optimal patient care.

Keywords: aortic valve insufficiency; bicuspid aortic valve disease; cardio thoracic surgery; infective endocarditis; pocus (point-of-care ultrasound); splenic infarct.

Publication types

  • Case Reports