Recurrent Streptococcus mutans endocarditis.
Recurrent bacterial endocarditis is associated with several risk factors including parenteral drug abuse, past valvular heart disease, and periodontitis. Recurrence rates vary from 2 to 18 percent for a single recurrence, and 1 to 5 percent for two recurrences. An unusual case study of a patient experiencing three episodes of bacterial endocarditis following dental work is described. The episodes occurred at least one year apart and were characterized by biochemically identical strains of Streptococcus mutans.
D000328:Adult; D003729:Dental Care; D004697:Endocarditis, Bacterial / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D012008:Recurrence; D013290:Streptococcal Infections / Q000209:etiology*; D013295:Streptococcus mutans