Infective Endocarditis (With Duke Criteria & Pathophysiology)

IE often develops in people with pre-existing heart conditions or those who have undergone invasive medical procedures such as heart surgery. The bacteria or germs can enter the bloodstream through activities like dental procedures, intravenous drug use, or even minor skin cuts or infections.

It is crucial to diagnose and treat infective endocarditis promptly to prevent severe complications, including heart failure, stroke, or even death. Combination therapy, which involves the use of multiple antibiotics, is commonly employed to target the infecting organisms effectively and minimize the risk of antibiotic resistance.

Individuals diagnosed with infective endocarditis may require hospitalization to receive intravenous antibiotics for several weeks. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair or replace damaged heart valves.

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Prevention of infective endocarditis includes practicing good oral hygiene, promptly treating skin infections or cuts, and informing healthcare providers about pre-existing heart conditions before invasive procedures.

1. Bacterial or fungal infection: The primary cause of infective endocarditis is the invasion of bacteria or fungi into the bloodstream. This can happen due to poor dental hygiene, intravenous drug use, or certain medical procedures that can introduce microorganisms into the body.
2. Pre-existing heart conditions: Individuals with pre-existing heart conditions, such as damaged or abnormal heart valves or congenital heart defects, are more susceptible to developing infective endocarditis. These conditions provide an opportunity for bacteria or fungi to attach and grow on the affected areas.
3. Injected drug use: Intravenous drug use, particularly when sharing contaminated needles, significantly increases the risk of infective endocarditis. The introduction of bacteria or fungi into the bloodstream through this route can lead to infection of the heart valves.
4. Age and gender: While infective endocarditis can occur at any age, certain age groups are more prone to the disease. Older adults and males, in particular, have a higher risk of developing this condition.

These are some of the main causes of infective endocarditis, and understanding them can help in preventing and managing the disease more effectively.Infective Endocarditis (as part of combination therapy) is a disease characterized by the following general symptoms:

• Fever
• Chills
• Fatigue
• Joint and muscle pain
• Sweating
• Unexplained weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• New or changed heart murmurs
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Persistent cough
• Palpitations
• Swelling in the legs, abdomen, or other areas
• Janeway lesions (small, painless red spots on the palms and soles)
• Osler nodes (tender, red, raised lesions on the fingers or toes)
• Roth spots (retinal hemorrhages with pale centers)
• Splinter hemorrhages (tiny black lines under the nails)