Multivalvular Staphylococcus aureus Endocarditis in a Preterm Infant Following Central Line-Associated Sepsis: A Case Report

To describe a rare case of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) multivalvular endocarditis in a preterm following central line-associated bloodstream infection.We present a case of a 30-week preterm infant born at home without prenatal care who developed MRSA endocarditis during hospitalization in the neonatal intensive care unit.The patient was admitted with hypothermia and respiratory distress, stabilized with supportive care, and received a peripherally inserted central catheter for total parenteral nutrition.On day 12, the patient developed late-onset sepsis.Blood cultures revealed MRSA, and echocardiography showed large vegetations on the mitral and aortic valves.Despite targeted antimicrobial therapy and intensive care, the patient developed multiorgan failure and died on day 19.MRSA endocarditis in preterm infants can progress rapidly and is often fatal.Early diagnosis, repeated echocardiography, and prompt antimicrobial therapy are key to improving outcomes.