# Hepatitis C Presenting Like Endocarditis in a Young Patient With Substance Use Disorder: A Case Report

## TL;DR

A young man with substance use disorder presented with symptoms resembling endocarditis but was ultimately diagnosed with hepatitis C.

## Contribution

This case emphasizes the importance of considering hepatitis C in patients with substance use disorder presenting with atypical symptoms.

## Key findings

- The patient was hepatitis C virus antibody positive despite asymptomatic presentation.
- Transthoracic echocardiogram ruled out infective endocarditis.
- The patient's history of heroin use was critical in guiding diagnostic testing.

## Abstract

This case report details a 21-year-old male patient who initially presented with endocarditis-like symptoms but ultimately had hepatitis C in the setting of substance use disorder. It highlights the value of prompt diagnosis and effective treatment. He had a medical history of chronic heroin use over two years and presented inconsistently to the emergency department with generalized body aches. He had generalized body pain and right upper and lower quadrant abdominal pain. He had been unable to tolerate any oral intake and had been vomiting after every meal for the last three weeks. Physical examination was significant only for large, ovoid, erythematous nodules on the left dorsal foot, blanching and slightly painful to touch; diffuse scabs and sores on extremities; and nodules on dorsal interphalangeal joints on the left hand. Urine drug screen was noted to be positive for cannabinoids, methamphetamines, and opioids. The initial electrocardiogram did not show typical T wave flattening changes for hypokalemia. Transthoracic echocardiogram ruled out infective endocarditis, with no valvular vegetation. He was ultimately found to be hepatitis C virus antibody positive. This case illustrates the importance of keeping a wide differential in mind. The patient had hepatitis C despite being asymptomatic throughout presentation-keeping. The patient’s history of heroin use was critical while ordering testing.