Infective endocarditis

Infective Endocarditis

Infective endocarditis (pronounced: in-FEK-tiv en-do-kar-DI-tis) is an infection of the inner lining of the heart chambers and valves, known as the endocardium.

Etymology

The term "endocarditis" is derived from the Greek words "endo" meaning "inside", "kardia" meaning "heart", and "itis" meaning "inflammation". The prefix "infective" indicates that the condition is caused by an infection.

Causes

Infective endocarditis is typically caused by bacteria, but can also be caused by fungi or other microorganisms. The most common bacteria that cause infective endocarditis are Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus viridans, and Enterococcus species.

Symptoms

Symptoms of infective endocarditis can vary, but often include fever, chills, fatigue, weight loss, night sweats, and a new or changed heart murmur.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of infective endocarditis is typically made through a combination of blood tests, echocardiography, and sometimes cardiac catheterization.

Treatment

Treatment for infective endocarditis usually involves long-term antibiotic therapy. In severe cases, surgery may be required to repair or replace damaged heart valves.

Related Terms

• Bacteremia
• Septicemia
• Heart valve
• Heart murmur
• Echocardiogram
• Cardiac catheterization

See Also

• Cardiology
• Infectious disease

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Infective endocarditis
• Wikipedia's article - Infective endocarditis

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