Infectious endocarditis caused by lactobacillus acidophilus in a patient with mistreated dental caries

Abstract

We present a rare case of infectious endocarditis caused by Lactobacillus acidophilus in a patient on long-term steroid use for autoimmune hepatitis. In vitro susceptibility-guided antibiotics with benzylpenicillin plus clindamycin and successive mitral annuloplasty resulted in a favorable outcome. Infectious endocarditis was suspected to be a complication of mistreated periodontal infection. Maintenance of oral hygiene is important in immunocompromised patients. © 2012 The Japanese Society of Internal Medicine.