Piercing-related endocarditis presenting with multiple large masses in the right-side chamber of the heart

J Am Soc Echocardiogr. 2008 Jun;21(6):776.e1-3. doi: 10.1016/j.echo.2007.08.047. Epub 2007 Oct 25.

Abstract

We present a case report of a 15-year-old girl with right-side endocarditis, which presented with multiple large masses located on both right chambers mimicking the appearance of a tumor. There were no predisposing factors other than an infected navel piercing. Piercing-associated infective endocarditis has occasionally been reported, and usually occurs in patients with an underlying cardiac condition. We briefly discuss the main features of piercing-related endocarditis and also some aspects of cardiac tumors as differential diagnosis of large cardiac masses.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Body Piercing / adverse effects*
  • Echocardiography, Transesophageal
  • Endocarditis / diagnosis*
  • Endocarditis / etiology*
  • Endocarditis / physiopathology
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Female
  • Heart Diseases / diagnosis
  • Humans
  • Risk Factors