Infective endocarditis caused by Abiotrophia defectiva in a pediatric patient with congenital heart disease: a case report

Background: Infective endocarditis (IE) is uncommon in children but is strongly influenced by underlying cardiac anomalies. Abiotrophia defectiva is a rare but clinically significant cause of IE, and is often associated with delayed diagnosis and adverse outcomes. Case presentation: An 11-year-old boy with a history of pulmonary atresia and ventricular septal defect who presented with infective endocarditis caused by A. defectiva at a tertiary care center in Mexico. The patient, underwent valve replacement surgery and received cephalosporin therapy, leading to full recovery. Conclusion: This case illustrates the diagnostic challenge of A. defectiva endocarditis in pediatric patients with congenital heart disease and highlights the need for early recognition and prompt intervention to avoid life-threatening complications.