Infective endocarditis--a tale of two cases and the lessons (re)learned.

Infective endocarditis due to uncommon organisms or at uncommon sites presents a diagnostic challenge. Because signs and symptoms can be nonspecific and vary greatly, a high index of suspicion is necessary. We have recently treated two such cases, one due to HACEK organism (Eikenella corrodens) in a patient with established valvular heart disease and other of right sided endocarditis due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This report describes the diagnostic difficulties faced.