Cardiobacterium hominis is most classically associated with which condition?

Cardiobacterium hominis is most classically associated with which condition?

• A. Endocarditis
• B. Urinary tract infection
• C. Meningitis
• D. Pneumonia

Answer: (A)

Cardiobacterium hominis is a member of the HACEK group of fastidious, Gram-negative bacteria that classically cause infective endocarditis, particularly the subacute form on previously damaged valves. These organisms grow slowly, so endocarditis can present with subtle symptoms and may yield culture-negative results unless incubated longer or special media are used. They are part of the oropharyngeal flora and can enter the bloodstream after dental procedures or from dental disease, leading to endocarditis in susceptible individuals. Because of this strong association with endocarditis, that condition is the best match among the options. The other conditions—urinary tract infection, meningitis, and pneumonia—are not characteristically linked to Cardiobacterium hominis.

Cardiobacterium hominis is a member of the HACEK group of fastidious, Gram-negative bacteria that classically cause infective endocarditis, particularly the subacute form on previously damaged valves. These organisms grow slowly, so endocarditis can present with subtle symptoms and may yield culture-negative results unless incubated longer or special media are used. They are part of the oropharyngeal flora and can enter the bloodstream after dental procedures or from dental disease, leading to endocarditis in susceptible individuals. Because of this strong association with endocarditis, that condition is the best match among the options. The other conditions—urinary tract infection, meningitis, and pneumonia—are not characteristically linked to Cardiobacterium hominis.