Infective Endocarditis Due to Kingella kingae

Abstract

Infective endocarditis due to Kingella kingae is a rare but serious invasive infection that occurs mostly in children. Recent advances in nucleic acid amplification testing as well as in cardiac imaging have enabled more accurate diagnosis. A good understanding of the epidemiology and virulence factors remains crucial to guide the therapeutic approach. Here, we synthesize the current state of knowledge on epidemiological features, pathophysiological insights, complications, and therapy regarding Kingella kingae endocarditis in children and adults. Finally, throughout this comprehensive review, knowledge gaps and areas for future research are also identified.

Keywords: Kingella kingae; cardiac imaging; cardiac surgery; children; infective endocarditis; invasive infection.

Figure 1

(A) Transthoracic echocardiography of a 5-year-old girl with infective endocarditis of the mitral valve with mild regurgitation (blue arrow). (B) Transesophageal echocardiography of the same patient that enables a better visualization of the vegetation on the anterior leaflet, as well as a better characterization of the regurgitation (white arrow).

Figure 2

Cardiac CT of a 6-year-old girl with infective endocarditis due to Kingella kingae complicated by a paraaortic pseudoaneurysm (white arrow).

Figure 3

¹⁸F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography of a 19-month-old boy with infective endocarditis of a Sano conduit between the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery (white arrow).