Abstract
Unicuspid aortic valve (UAV) is a rare congenital malformation, related
to an aggressive evolution of valve function. Its diagnosis represents
an important cardiac imaging challenge, since it is often difficult to
differentiate between other anomalies like bicuspid aortic valve.
Recently, bicuspid aortic valve has been associated with IE, especially
when aortic valve function shows significant stenosis, however, the
relationship between IE and UAV is unclear. The anatomical
characteristics of UAV could predispose to IE. This report describes a
young patient affected by infective endocarditis (IE) with UAV and the
case reviews the echocardiographic criteria used to improve its
management.