Published in:
Open Access 01-12-2022 | Systemic Lupus Erythematosus | Case report
Bartonella endocarditis and diffuse crescentic proliferative glomerulonephritis with a full-house pattern of immune complex deposition
Published in: BMC Nephrology | Issue 1/2022
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Background
Bartonella endocarditis is often a diagnostic challenge due to its variable clinical manifestations, especially when it is first presented with involvement of organs other than skin and lymph nodes, such as the kidney.
Case presentation
This was a 13-year-old girl presenting with fever, chest and abdominal pain, acute kidney injury, nephrotic-range proteinuria and low complement levels. Her kidney biopsy showed diffuse crescentic proliferative glomerulonephritis with a full-house pattern of immune complex deposition shown by immunofluorescence, which was initially considered consistent with systemic lupus erythematous-associated glomerulonephritis (lupus nephritis). After extensive workup, Bartonella endocarditis was diagnosed. Antibiotic treatment and valvular replacement surgery were undertaken with subsequent return of kidney function to normal range.
Conclusion
This case demonstrates the importance of considering the full clinical picture when interpreting clinical, laboratory and biopsy findings, because the treatment strategy for infective endocarditis versus lupus nephritis is drastically different.