Implantable cardiac defibrillator infections: the emerging importance of Mycobacterium fortuitum

Infection is a clinically relevant complication associated with intracardiac devices. Atypical mycobacteria, particularly Mycobacterium fortuitum, have been increasingly implicated in cardiovascular implantable electronic device (CIED) infections. We present a case of M. fortuitum CIED infection in a patient with ischaemic cardiomyopathy occurring approximately 3 weeks after insertion. The recognition and adequate treatment, including device removal, tissue sampling and the determination of antimicrobial sensitivities, are essential in the proper management of these patients.