Kingella kingae infections are primarily associated with which condition?

Kingella kingae is a bacterium that is primarily known for its association with specific types of infections, particularly in children. The hallmark condition linked to K. kingae is endocarditis, especially in children who may have underlying heart conditions. This organism is part of the normal flora of the oropharynx but can lead to infections when it enters the bloodstream, often following a respiratory tract infection or minor trauma.

In the case of endocarditis, K. kingae can infect heart valves, leading to severe health complications if not treated promptly. This differentiates it from other conditions such as meningitis, middle ear infections, or urogenital infections, which are more commonly associated with other microorganisms. Thus, the strong connection of Kingella kingae with endocarditis emphasizes its significance in clinical microbiology, particularly within pediatric populations.