Nana's Broken Heart, Mended by Dr. Maxie
Nana belongs to one of our fantastic rotating Interns. When she was found to be lethargic with shortness of breath, she was evaluated by the Cardiology team at VSH.
Dr. Maxie performed an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart), which revealed abnormal aortic valve leaflets, abnormal blood flow velocity and turbulence. Based on the sudden onset of symptoms and the ultrasound findings, endocarditis was diagnosed. Endocarditis is inflammation of the inside of the heart.
Given the usually poor prognosis for endocarditis when caused by infection, aggressive treatment was recommended and a long course of broad spectrum antibiotics was commenced. Since then, Nana has made dramatic improvement. A recheck scan this week showed normal heart structure! Nana can now enjoy normal life, lots of treats, and her usual crazy circling exercise!
