Endocarditis (heart valve infection)

Description Infection of the li...

Description

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 and artificial heart valves are more likely to become infected. Bacteria, especially strep and staph species, are the most common germs that cause endocarditis. As they multiply, tissue is damaged. Depending on the extent of damage, heart function may be affected. Intravenous drug use is a major risk factor for 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

Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment

Workup:
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.

Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Electrocardiogram (EKG), Troponin, Urinalysis (UA), X-ray

Other Specific Tests: Echocardiogram, blood cultures

Specialists:
Cardiology, Infectious Disease Medicine, Pediatric Cardiology, Pediatric Infectious Disease Medicine

Treatment

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.