Infective endocarditis mimicking antineutrophil-cytoplasmic-antibody-associated vasculitis with glomerulonephritis: a case report

Abstract

Background: Infective endocarditis occasionally presents with antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody positivity, leading to diagnostic challenges and confusion, as it can be mislabeled antineutrophil-cytoplasmic-antibody-associated vasculitis. Distinguishing between these two factors is crucial for appropriate management. Case presentation: In this case report, we describe a 77-year-old White non-Hispanic male patient who initially presented with features suggestive of antineutrophil-cytoplasmic-antibody-associated vasculitis but was ultimately diagnosed with infective endocarditis. Conclusion: Our findings emphasize the need to rule out infective endocarditis in patients with suspected antineutrophil-cytoplasmic-antibody-associated vasculitis, as it can be the same, and management relies on different lines of therapy. Immunosuppression therapy can lead to devastating effects in patients with infective endocarditis.