Penicillium endocarditis of aortic valve prosthesis

This report concerns the first case of Penicillium endocarditis developing on an aortic valve prosthesis. The patient died 74 days after implantation of the Starr-Edwards prosthesis. Penicillium is a saprophytic fungus and only occasionally is pathogenic. Endocarditis due to various fungal organisms is uncommon but is increasing in frequency. This report summarizes suggested combined medical and surgical treatment.