Endocarditis (heart valve infection)

About Endocarditis (heart valve infection)

Infection of the linings inside the heart chambers. The inside of the heart chambers and valves are lined by endocardium. Infection of this lining is called endocarditis. The valves of the heart are most commonly infected. Structurally abnormal heart valves are more likely to become infected. Bacteria are the most common organisms but fungi can also endocarditis. The organisms grow in the blood and lodge themselves in the heart. As they multiply, tissue is damaged. Depending on the extent of damage, heart function may be affected. Patients with abnormal heart valves can acquire endocarditis after dental or other medical procedures. Antibiotics before and during the procedures can help prevent the infection. Intravenous drug use also increases the risk of endocarditis. Left untreated the disorder can cause strokes, damage to other organs, and heart failure.

Symptoms

Fever, chills, fatigue, night sweats, joint pains, body aches, and poor appetite. With heart failure, shortness of breath, leg swelling and abdominal swelling can occur. Doctors listen for a new heart murmur.

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical exam will be performed. A new heart murmur can sometimes be heard during the examination. An echocardiogram may detect a growth (vegetation) on a heart valve. Blood cultures are used to detect the infecting organism.

Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), EKG, Troponin, Urinalysis (UA), X-ray.

Conventional treatment summary

Therapy consists of intravenous antibiotics or anti-fungal medications to kill the offending organisms. Treatment usually lasts 4-6 weeks. For severe damage to a heart valve or persistent infection despite antibiotics, surgery to replace the heart valve may be required. For more information contact the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute Health Information Center at: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov

Medical specialties

Cardiology · Infectious Disease Medicine · Pediatric Cardiology · Pediatric Infectious Disease Medicine

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Endocarditis (heart valve infection).