A 48-year-old male with a history of intravenous drug use presents to the emergency department complaining of a high fever and malaise. He also reports experiencing a new onset of a heart murmur and petechiae. His vitals are BP 110/70, HR 102, RR 20, and Temp 102.2°F. Based on these presenting symptoms, which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?
The patient presents with classic signs of endocarditis, including fever, malaise, new onset of a heart murmur, and petechiae. These symptoms are indicative of an infection of the inner lining of the heart, often affecting the heart valves. Intravenous drug use is a known risk factor for endocarditis due to the potential introduction of bacteria into the bloodstream. While the other conditions also relate to cardiac issues, they do not typically present with petechiae or are less likely in someone with the patient's stated history.
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BCEN CEN
Cardiovascular Emergencies
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