Heart Health

Home |Health Centers |Heart Health |Heart Injuries & Infections

Endocarditis

Also called: Rheumatic Endocarditis, Bacterial Endocarditis, Acute Endocarditis, Valvular Endocarditis, Infective Endocarditis, Mural Endocarditis

- Summary
- About endocarditis
- Signs and symptoms
- Diagnosis methods
- Treatment options
- Prevention methods
- Questions for your doctor

Reviewed By:
Abdou Elhendy, MD, PhD, FACC, FAHA
Robert I. Hamby, M.D., FACC, FACP

Test Your Knowledge
-	Heart Disease Basics Quiz
-	Infectious Disease Basics Quiz
Quizzes A-Z

Prevention methods for endocarditis

There are a number of preexisting conditions that increase a patient’s risk of endocarditis. These conditions include the following:

Heart murmurs, particularly when accompanied by regurgitation
A prior case of endocarditis
The presence of one or more artificial heart valves
Certain heart defects or heart diseases that are present since birth (e.g., patent ductus arteriosus, ventricular septal defect, coarctation of the aorta)
Any type of valvular heart disease (e.g., valvular stenosis, valvular regurgitation, mitral valve prolapse)
The presence of surgical shunts from the aorta to the pulmonary artery
Illegal intravenous (I.V.) drug use
A prior history of rheumatic fever
Excessive alcohol use
Infection with HIV, AIDS or other diseases that affect the immune system
Diabetic patients undergoing hemodialysis

Individuals who are at high risk for endocarditis are strongly advised to take antibiotics before any dental or medical procedure. This preventive action may help to protect patients from bacteria that could be introduced into the bloodstream. Patients should immediately alert all medical and dental professionals of their condition to be sure it is included in their medical records. The American Heart Association has an endocarditis wallet card that a person can carry in order to alert medical workers in the event of an emergency.

Some physicians have begun to recommend that some higher risk patients take antibiotics prior to undergoing tattooing or body piercing due to a possible link with endocarditis. While there is no clinical evidence that indicates endocarditis is caused by these activities, some physicians have reported seeing cases of endocarditis after body piercing and/or tattooing was performed.

In addition, individuals who are at risk for endocarditis should pay special attention to oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing on a regular basis can help prevent the build-up of bacteria in the mouth. Regular cleaning and check-ups by a dentist should also be a part of the preventive plan.

Prev Page | page 6 of 7 | Next Page

Review Date: 05-18-2007