Non-ischemic rupture of the posteromedial papillary muscle due to Streptococcus agalactiae endocarditis

Abstract

Papillary muscle rupture is usually caused by myocardial infarction although rare cases of non-ischemic etiology have also been described. Among these, infective endocarditis represents an important cause. Herein, we report a case due to Streptococcus agalactiae involving the posteromedial papillary muscle.

Learning objective: Non-ischemic papillary muscle rupture should be suspected when there is no evidence of atherosclerotic coronary artery disease. In the febrile patient, infective endocarditis should be considered in the differential diagnosis.

Keywords: Acute mitral regurgitation; Echocardiography; Infective endocarditis; Papillary muscle rupture; Streptococcus agalactiae.