Infective Endocarditis

Infective endocarditis is microbial infection of the endocardial surface (usually a heart valve), presenting with fever, a new or changed murmur, embolic phenomena (Osler nodes, Janeway lesions, Roth spots, stroke), and positive blood cultures. It is serious. Treatment: blood cultures before antibiotics; prolonged IV bactericidal antibiotics based on organism; urgent surgery for heart failure, uncontrolled infection, large vegetations/emboli, or prosthetic-valve endocarditis; long-term follow-up.

Common Symptoms

Fever; new/changed murmur; embolic signs (Osler/Janeway/Roth); positive blood cultures; by acute/subacute

Causes and Pathogenesis

Bacteria (Staph/Strep) seed abnormal valves, forming vegetations and causing destruction/emboli.

Treatment

Blood cultures; prolonged IV antibiotics; surgery for HF/uncontrolled infection/large vegetations; follow-up

Preventive Measures

Dental/endocarditis prophylaxis in high-risk valves; treat infection promptly.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Cardiology/Infectious-disease department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.