Rapid Development of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) Purulent Pericarditis in the Setting of Endocarditis

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) purulent pericarditis is a rare but potentially fatal complication of MRSA bacteremia. We describe a case of a 27-year-old patient with active intravenous drug use, who presented with fever, chills, and dyspnea and was found to have tricuspid valve endocarditis. Echocardiogram on admission showed no pericardial effusion. The patient became hypotensive, with worsening dyspnea, in the following 3 days. A computed tomography scan of the chest was repeated and showed a large pericardial effusion. The patient underwent pericardiocentesis and pericardial drain placement. Antibiotics were continued, with resolution of effusion. Early pericardiocentesis of a large purulent pericardial effusion may prevent catastrophic outcomes.