Complete and partly unexpected diagnostic findings at 18F-FDG-PET/CT scanning in patients with suspected prosthetic valve endocarditis.

A 76-year-old male with previous aortic valve replacement presented with intermittent fever. No apparent source of infection was found at clinical inspection. Blood cultures were positive for Streptococcus anginosus . Infective endocarditis was suspected and transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE) was performed. The exam showed a mildly degenerated bioprosthesis with thickened leaflets; there was an increased gradient (mean gradient 22 mmHg); neither valvular nor perivalvular regurgitation was identified. These findings were suspect for …