[Propionibacterium acnes infectious endocarditis]

Abstract

Background: Propionibacterium acnes, a Gram positive microaerophilic bacteria is considered to have a low level of virulence. Nevertheless, it can be associated with infective endocarditis. We report 2 cases and a review of the literature.

Case reports: The first man developed an acute prosthetic valve infective endocarditis and died. The second case was also a prosthetic valve infective endocarditis in a patient who developed infectious spondylitis.

Discussion: P. acnes is an uncommon causal agent in infective endocarditis and appears to have a predilectio for prosthetic valves. A prior history of skin infection is rare. P. acnes grow quite slowly, often requiring 7 to 14 days for identification. All isolates of P. acnes from blood or valve do not necessarily mean contamination.