Staphylococcal endocarditis and multiple emboli in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus
Liao, C-Hua.; Yao, T-Chieh.; Chung, H-Tao.; Lien, R-In.; Huang, J-Long.
Journal of Rheumatology 31(11): 2305-2306
2004
ISSN/ISBN: 0315-162X PMID: 15517650 Document Number: 571155
Infection is an important risk factor for morbidity and mortality in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and major infection1 accounts for 32% of deaths in SLE. The longterm use of corticosteroids and immunosuppressive agents contributes to this risk2-4. Corticosteroids lead to fibrotic and retracted cardiac valve leaflet tissue, which increases the risk of valvular dysfunction and infective endocarditis (IE) in patients with SLE5. We describe a patient with SLE who developed Staphylococcus aureus endocarditis with multiple brain and cutaneous septic emboli following dental work.