Randy & Robyn
Well-known member
One of my cultures from nearly a month ago finally grew. My cardiologist and infectious disease doctor were both absolutely shocked when the bacteria was identified. Acute brucellosis, a very rare form of the infection. We even get to have a visit from the cdc since they will be doing an investigation to trace where I could have contracted it. I will also have my case published in the medical journals. What a price for fame.
Brucellosis is prevalent in Mexico and South America and primarily spread through unpasteurized dairy products. It is virtually unheard of in this part of the United States. The government even fears its use as a biological weapon.
So now I am on a regimen of three antibiotics. Two are oral: doxycycline and ofloxacin. The other is intravenous: gentamycin. In two weeks they replace the intravenous antibiotic with another oral one. It is highly likely I will be on them for the next few years since this infection has a very high incidence of recurrence.
It is my understanding that I may have no choice but to receive a homograft. The fact that I will be on such potent antibiotics long term would complicate coumadin management. Also, homografts would be the most resistant to any recurrent infections.
My infectious disease doctor is recommending having valve replacement surgery before the end of the year. I have already decided I am going to wait to have the surgery until early in January. Might as well enjoy the holidays. You never know when it will be your last.
Randy
Brucellosis is prevalent in Mexico and South America and primarily spread through unpasteurized dairy products. It is virtually unheard of in this part of the United States. The government even fears its use as a biological weapon.
So now I am on a regimen of three antibiotics. Two are oral: doxycycline and ofloxacin. The other is intravenous: gentamycin. In two weeks they replace the intravenous antibiotic with another oral one. It is highly likely I will be on them for the next few years since this infection has a very high incidence of recurrence.
It is my understanding that I may have no choice but to receive a homograft. The fact that I will be on such potent antibiotics long term would complicate coumadin management. Also, homografts would be the most resistant to any recurrent infections.
My infectious disease doctor is recommending having valve replacement surgery before the end of the year. I have already decided I am going to wait to have the surgery until early in January. Might as well enjoy the holidays. You never know when it will be your last.
Randy