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Heart, section through the middle Heart, front view Infective endocarditis Janeway lesion on the finger

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Infectious endocarditis

Alternative Names: Endocarditis - infectious Treatment: Hospitalization is required initially to administer intravenous antibiotics. Long-term, high-dose antibiotic therapy is required to eradicate the bacteria from the heart chambers and vegetations on the valves. Therapy up to 6 weeks is not uncommon. The chosen antibiotic must be specific for the organism causing the condition. This is determined by the blood culture and the sensitivities tests. Text Continues Below If heart failure develops as a result of damaged heart valves, surgery to replace the affected heart valve may be indicated. Expectations (prognosis): Early treatment of bacterial endocarditis generally has a good outcome. Heart valves may be damaged if diagnosis and treatment is delayed. Complications: Congestive heart failure if treatment is delayed Blood clots or emboli that travel to brain, kidneys, lungs, or abdomen, causing severe damage Arrhythmias (rapid or irregular heartbeat), such as atrial fibrillation Glomerulonephritis Severe valve damage Stroke Brain abscess Neurologic changes Jaundice Calling your health care provider: Call your health care provider if you note the following symptoms during or after treatment: Weight loss without change in diet Blood in urine Chest pain Weakness Numbness or weakness of muscles Fever

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