Abstract 4367467: Fatal Bilateral Septic Embolic Stroke from Left Atrial Roof Endocarditis Following Atrial Fibrillation and Flutter Ablation

A 67-year-old male with prior CABG (2022), atrial fibrillation, and dual-chamber pacemaker (implanted November 2024) underwent radiofrequency ablation for atrial fibrillation with additional cavotricuspid isthmus ablation for typical flutter in April 2025, continuing Apixaban post-ablation. Thirty-five days later, he presented with sudden-onset slurred speech and left-sided weakness that resolved within 10 minutes. Two hours later, he developed facial droop, aphasia, and left hemiparesis. CT head negative;CTA head/neck showed moderate bilateral carotid stenosis and distal right vertebral artery narrowing. On hospital day two, he developed fever and worsening shortness of breath, requiring ICU transfer for NIV support. CT chest ruled out pulmonary embolism. Blood cultures grew Streptococcus mitis, and broad-spectrum antibiotics were started. He was intubated to facilitate MRI brain, which revealed extensive bilateral supratentorial embolic infarcts with vasogenic edema and microhemorrhages. Transthoracic echocardiogram was inconclusive; transesophageal echocardiography revealed a 1.7 × 1.0 cm mobile echodensity on the roof of the left atrium (Image 1). The left atrial appendage was thrombus-free, and no vegetations were seen on the visible pacemaker lead. Apixaban was discontinued due to cerebral hemorrhage. Despite ICU-level care, the patient developed septic shock, acute kidney injury, and multiorgan failure. After discussion with family, he was transitioned to comfort care and died on hospital day six. Discussion: This case illustrates a rare but fatal complication of post-ablation infective endocarditis. While vegetations typically involve valvular surfaces, ablation-induced transmural injury may expose thrombogenic and infectable endocardium. The left atrial roof is an unusual site for vegetation but anatomically plausible following ablation. Streptococcus mitis, a viridans group streptococcus, may preferentially seed areas of prior endothelial injury. Early transesophageal echocardiography plays a critical role in identifying non-valvular vegetations, guiding antimicrobial therapy, and informing anticoagulation decisions. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of left atrial roof endocarditis following atrial flutter and fibrillation ablation presenting with extensive bilateral septic embolic stroke. Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for atypical IE in the post-ablation period, particularly in patients with cardiac devices.