Infective Endocarditis: Diagnosis and Treatment - PubMed
7 hours ago
- #treatment
- #infective endocarditis
- #diagnosis
- Infective endocarditis occurs when conditions damage the heart's endothelial lining, creating an infection site.
- The infection triggers inflammation, leading to platelet aggregation, thrombus formation, and bacterial colonization.
- Common pathogens include Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus species, and Enterococcus species (over 80% of cases).
- Symptoms include fever (common in acute cases) and new/worsening heart murmur.
- Diagnosis involves blood cultures, echocardiography, and the 2023 Duke Criteria.
- Treatment includes empiric IV antibiotics, source control, and multi-disciplinary consultation.
- Patients should be monitored for complications and potential surgical needs.
- Antibiotic prophylaxis and good oral/skin hygiene are recommended for those with a history of endocarditis.