Definition, Symptoms, and Complications of Endocarditis
- Endocarditis is an infection of the inner lining of the heart chambers and heart valves.
- It is typically caused by bacteria entering the bloodstream and attaching to damaged heart tissue.
- Common symptoms include fever, fatigue, heart murmur, joint pain, night sweats, weight loss, and small reddish spots on the skin.
- If left untreated, endocarditis can lead to serious complications such as valvular insufficiency, heart failure, stroke, and kidney failure.

Risk Factors and Diagnosis of Endocarditis
- People with certain heart conditions, such as congenital heart defects or artificial heart valves, are at higher risk.
- Intravenous drug users who inject drugs into their veins are also at increased risk.
- Dental procedures, poor dental hygiene, and skin infections can introduce bacteria into the bloodstream and increase the risk of endocarditis.
- Diagnosis is based on a combination of clinical symptoms, medical history, and laboratory tests including blood cultures and echocardiography.
- The Duke criteria are widely used to help diagnose endocarditis based on specific clinical criteria.

Treatment of Endocarditis
- Treatment usually involves a combination of antibiotics to target the specific bacteria causing the infection.
- The choice of antibiotics depends on the type of bacteria and their susceptibility to certain drugs.
- In severe cases, hospitalization may be required for intravenous antibiotic therapy.
- Surgery may be necessary to repair or replace damaged heart valves or to drain abscesses.
- Long-term antibiotic prophylaxis may be recommended for individuals at high risk of recurrent endocarditis.

Prevention of Endocarditis
- Maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular dental check-ups, can help prevent oral infections that may lead to endocarditis.
- Individuals at high risk, such as those with artificial heart valves, may be prescribed antibiotics before certain dental or medical procedures.
- Avoiding intravenous drug use and practicing safe injection techniques can reduce the risk of bloodstream infections.
- Education and awareness campaigns can help promote understanding of the risk factors and symptoms of endocarditis.
- Early diagnosis and treatment of infections, particularly in individuals with heart conditions, can help prevent the development of endocarditis.

Populations at Risk and Statistics
- Populations at high risk include those with previous infective endocarditis, surgical or transcatheter prosthetic valves, untreated congenital heart disease, and surgically corrected congenital heart disease.
- The number of people affected is about 5 per 100,000 per year.
- Rates of endocarditis vary between regions of the world.
- Males are affected more often than females.
- The risk of death among those infected is about 25%, and without treatment, it is almost universally fatal.