Multiple organ dysfunction after mitral valve replacement in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus complicated by Libman-Sacks endocarditis: a case report and literature review

J Int Med Res. 2023 Sep;51(9):3000605231198731. doi: 10.1177/03000605231198731.

Abstract

This case report describes a 47-year-old woman with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) complicated by Libman-Sacks endocarditis (LSE) who developed multiple organ dysfunction after mitral valve replacement surgery. The patient presented with a 5-day history of cough, sputum, and fever. Transthoracic echocardiography showed significant vegetations on the mitral valve. Biopsy was performed, and the pathological diagnosis was SLE complicated by LSE. After the mitral valve replacement surgery, the patient developed clinical manifestations of hepatic and renal dysfunction, cardiopulmonary failure, oliguria, and shock. The clinical symptoms significantly improved after administration of mechanical ventilation, continuous renal replacement therapy, plasma exchange, anti-inflammatory and anti-infection treatments, immunomodulatory and immunosuppressive therapies, and low-molecular-weight heparin anticoagulation. Multiple organ dysfunction after mitral valve replacement in patients with SLE complicated by LSE has rarely been reported. This report discusses the clinical manifestations, pathogenesis, and treatment of this severe complication. We hope the sharing of our experience in this case will provide a clinical basis for the treatment of severe multiple organ dysfunction after mitral valve replacement in patients with SLE complicated by LSE.

Keywords: Libman–Sacks endocarditis; Systemic lupus erythematosus; case report; literature review; mitral valve replacement; multiple organ dysfunction; systemic inflammatory response syndrome.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Endocarditis* / complications
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic* / complications
  • Middle Aged
  • Mitral Valve / diagnostic imaging
  • Mitral Valve / surgery
  • Multiple Organ Failure / etiology
  • Patients