Clinical Features and Symptoms of Infective Endocarditis

Infective endocarditis is a severe infection of the heart's endocardium, often affecting the heart valves. Timely diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent life-threatening complications.

Introduction

Infective endocarditis arises when bacteria or fungi enter the bloodstream and attach to the heart's inner lining or valves. It is categorized into acute and subacute forms, depending on its progression and severity.

Etiology and Pathogenesis

• Caused by Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and Enterococcus species.
• Occurs due to intravenous drug use, prosthetic valves, congenital heart diseases, or previous endocarditis episodes.
• Bacteria adhere to damaged endothelium, forming vegetations composed of platelets and fibrin.

Clinical Features

Common symptoms include:

• Persistent fever and chills.
• Fatigue and weakness.
• Heart murmurs and irregular heartbeats.
• Petechiae (tiny red spots on the skin).
• Janeway lesions (painless red patches on palms and soles).
• Osler’s nodes (painful red nodules on fingertips and toes).

Diagnostic Modalities

Diagnosis involves a combination of clinical evaluation and laboratory tests:

• Blood cultures to detect causative organisms.
• Echocardiography (transthoracic or transesophageal) to visualize vegetations.
• Complete blood count showing leukocytosis.
• Elevated inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP).

Conclusion

Early recognition and intervention are crucial in managing infective endocarditis. Antibiotic therapy and, in severe cases, surgical intervention are necessary for favorable outcomes.