Infective Endocarditis

It is an infection of the endocardial surface with micro organisms present in the lesion. The endocardium is contagions with the valves of the heart. Therefore, inflammation form infective endocarditis frequently affects the cardiac valves. Two forms of infective endocarditis.

Subacute: more insidious onset with less toxicity and usually caused by low virulent organism. Most often streptococcus viridans.

i) Acute

have a shorter clinical course, rapid onset, increased toxicity, caused by a more pathogenic organism (Staphylococcus aureus).

ii) Other Causative Organisms

Streptococci, staphylococci, klebsiella, pseudomonas, hemophilus, fungi and viruses.

iii) Predisposing Conditions

1. Rheumatic heart diseases. 
2. Bifid aortic valves. 
3. Cynotic congenital heart disease. 
4. Prosthetic valves. 
5. Degenerative valvular lesions. 
6. IV illicit drug uses. 
7. Intravascular devices.