A case of mistaken identity: subacute bacterial endocarditis associated with p-antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody.

Abstract

Seventeen cases of subacute bacterial endocarditis (SBE) associated with antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) have been reported. Fifteen such cases have been associated with c-ANCA postivity and two with dual p-ANCA and c-ANCA antibodies. The authors describe a 61-year-old man with sole p-ANCA positive autoantibodies on immunofluorescence presenting with Staphylococcus aureus SBE of the aortic valve. To the best of our knowledge this is the only reported case of sole p-ANCA positive SBE. Full recovery was achieved with antibiotic treatment. ANCAs are known to be associated with infection and their characterisation in acute illness is key in differentiating a true vasculitis from an infection. Unnecessary immunosuppression can be prevented with full investigation of such patients, including both immunofluorescence and ELISA.

• Authors: A M Riding, D P D'Cruz
• Journal: BMJ case reports (BMJ Case Rep) Vol. 2010 (Dec 14 2010) ISSN: 1757-790X [Electronic] England
• PMID: 22802277 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Antibodies, Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic

Topics

• Antibodies, Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic
• Endocarditis, Subacute Bacterial (immunology)
• Humans
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Staphylococcal Infections (immunology)