Google PSEUDOMONAS ENDOCARDITIS IN INTRAVENOUS DRUG USERS | Web Health Directory

21 June, 2009

PSEUDOMONAS ENDOCARDITIS IN INTRAVENOUS DRUG USERS

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Gram-negative Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria ...Image via Wikipedia

Pseudomonas is a gram negative,rod shaped bacteria that is a causative agent of many serious infections.

Endocarditis is defined as inflammation of the inner most lining if the heart.It may occurs due to variety of infections and other causes.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a very common cause of endocarditis,specially in intravenous drug users.It has the capacity to infect native as well as prosthetic heart valves.The source of this bacteria is usually the standing water contaminating drug paraphernalia.Furthermore foreign materials present in drugs like heroin may damage the heart valves,thus facilitating the spread of infection.

The tricuspid valve located in the right side of the heart,in between the right and atrium and right ventricle is most commonly effected,although any other valve may be effected.

This disease is diagnosed by isolation of the bacteria in blood culture.Vegetations may be found over the heart valves in echocardiography.There may also be evidence of septic pulmonary lesions in chest x-ray.

Pseudomonas endocarditis,is usually treated by anti-pseudomonal penicillins like piperacillin+tazobactum.ticarcillin+clavulinate,mezlocillin etc.This drugs are usually given in their highest doses.In some situations valve replacement may be necessary.

For more information on this,please discuss with your doctor and visit other reliable internet sources, or may post any question in the comment section.



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