From Sheep to Heart: A Case of Infective Endocarditis due to Coxiella Burnetii

This article presents a case of infective endocarditis caused by Coxiella burnetii in a 58-year-old male shepherd from a rural background. The patient was admitted with symptoms of dyspnea, fatigue, lower limb edema, and oliguria. Clinical examination revealed significant cardiac and systemic findings, while paraclinical investigations indicated inflammatory status and renal impairment. Blood cultures were negative, while serological testing revealed and confirmed the presence of Coxiella burnetii. The diagnosis of infective endocarditis affecting the aortic valve was established. The patient received treatment for cardiac failure and targeted antibiotic therapy with Doxycycline, resulting in a favorable clinical response and resolution of symptoms. This case emphasizes the importance of recognizing zoonotic infections in individuals with occupational exposure and highlights the need for comprehensive diagnostic approaches in atypical presentations of endocarditis.