Aortic root abscess in Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans endocarditis: non invasive diagnosis and successful outcome following early surgery.

The case described is the first in which Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans endocarditis affecting the aortic valve was complicated by aortic root abscess formation. The diagnosis was supported by the development of complete left bundle branch block, the presence of pericarditis and the two-dimensional echocardiographic appearance. Early surgery was performed and the diagnosis confirmed. The patient made a full recovery.