A Case of Listeria monocytogenes Infective Endocarditis

Listeriamonocytogenes (L. monocytogenes) is a Gram-positive facultative intracellular aerobic bacterium. We report the case of a 77-year-old male presenting with focal neurological symptoms found secondary to embolization from L. monocytogenes infective endocarditis (IE) involving the mitral valve. Blood cultures and echocardiogram were positive. Meningitis was ruled out via lumbar puncture. Treatment was done successfully with a prolonged course of ceftazidime. IE from L. monocytogenes is a rare but life-threatening complication and therefore prompt identification of infectious process is paramount. The mainstay of therapy is use of beta-lactams.