Two case reports of group B streptococcal infective endocarditis complicated by embolism

Abstract

Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B streptococcus, GBS) is the major pathogen encountered in the perinatal period, although the incidence of GBS infection has recently increased among non-pregnant adults. Nevertheless, GBS infective endocarditis (IE) is uncommon and often accompanies aortic embolism. We experienced two cases of GBS IE. In Case 1, mobile vegetation of the aortic valve caused an infective cerebral aneurysm. In Case 2, the patient experienced an acute aortic embolic episode. Generally, early surgery for large mobile sites of vegetation is recommended as a class IIb therapy in the guidelines. GBS IE often exhibits a severe clinical course and specificity of vegetation. Therefore, early surgery should be considered in such cases.