Infective Endocarditis (Subacute)

Infective Endocarditis (Subacute) is an infection of the inner lining of the heart, especially affecting the heart valves. It is caused by bacteria or other germs entering the bloodstream and attaching to damaged areas of the heart. This condition mainly affects the cardiovascular system and can lead to serious problems like heart valve damage and heart failure. Symptoms often develop slowly over weeks and include fever, fatigue, and weight loss. The infection can also cause small clumps of bacteria and cells called vegetations to form on the valves, which may break off and cause complications elsewhere in the body. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent severe damage and other health issues.

Infective Endocarditis (Subacute) is a subacute bacterial infection of the endocardium, primarily involving the heart valves, characterized by the formation of vegetations composed of platelets, fibrin, microorganisms, and inflammatory cells. It typically occurs in patients with pre-existing valvular abnormalities or prosthetic valves, allowing colonization by low-virulence organisms such as Viridans streptococci. The disease progresses over weeks to months, causing systemic symptoms like fever, malaise, and weight loss, along with cardiac manifestations including new or changing murmurs. The infection can lead to valvular destruction, heart failure, and systemic emboli. Diagnosis relies on clinical, microbiological, and echocardiographic findings. The subacute form contrasts with acute endocarditis by its slower progression and less aggressive pathogens.