Aspergillus flavus Endocarditis - To Prevaricate is to Posture
ABSTRACT
Fungal endocarditis represents both a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge to the treating team. The critical care physician will see a rising incidence as older and more immuno-compromised patients are being supported in their intensive care units. Aspergillus sp. endocarditis represents less than 25% of all cases of fungal endocarditis and is associated with a mortality of around 80%. Early diagnosis may assist with definitive management. We review a case of Aspergillus endocarditis, and review the literature as to optimal methods of detection, imaging modalities of choice, and management, both surgical and medical. (Critical Care and Resuscitation 2006; 8: 46-49)
Key words:
Aspergillus flavus, endocarditis, thromboembolism
