Aspergillus infection of prosthetic aortic valves.

Two cases of aspergillus infection of prosthetic aortic valves are discussed. In both femoral artery embolism was an important feature. In the first case endocarditis became apparent when embolism occurred 14 months after prosthetic valve insertion and roentgenograms then revealed a “double exposure” sign of partial valve detachment Additional clues were excessive valve hemolysis and loss of the ball opening sound. Reoperation and chemotherapy have led to survival for more than a year. In the other case, massive vegetations caused death soon after surgery.