Glomerulonephritis Associated With Infected Cardiac Pacemaker Lead Mimics Infective Endocarditis-Associated Glomerulonephritis With Resolution After Lead Removal: A Case Report and Literature Review

The incidence of cardiac pacemaker lead infections is increasing due to the rise in cardiac implantable device use. These infections mimic infective endocarditis (IE) and cause a variety of complications. However, there is a scarcity of knowledge regarding glomerulonephritis (GN) resulting from cardiac pacemaker-lead infections. This report describes a 71-year-old female who presented with GN associated with a cardiac pacemaker-lead infection. The patient was successfully treated with intravenous (IV) antibiotics, IV steroids, and early surgical removal of the cardiac pacemaker lead, resulting in the resolution of GN. Current guidelines do not address cardiac pacemaker lead infection-associated GN as an indication for lead removal. Given the success of our treatment approach and the rising incidence of cardiac pacemaker infections, we suggest the consideration of early surgical removal of the cardiac lead, in conjunction with antibiotics and steroids, for the treatment of cardiac lead infection associated with GN. Further research is necessary to determine the prevalence and optimal management of this complication.