Pharmacy Clinical Pearl of the Day: Endocarditis

Clinical Pearl of the Day: Endocarditis

Endocarditis is a life-threatening inflammation of the inner lining of the heart's chambers and valves (endocardium).

Insight:

• Endocarditis is usually caused by an infection.
• Bacteria, fungi, or other germs from another part of the body, such as the mouth, spread through the bloodstream and attach to damaged areas in the heart.
• If it's not treated quickly, endocarditis can damage or destroy the heart valve.
• Symptoms may include aching joints and muscles, chest pain when breathing, fatigue, flu-like symptoms such as fever and chills, night sweats, shortness of breath, and swelling in the feet, legs, or abdomen.
• Bacteria, fungi, and other germs that cause endocarditis may enter the bloodstream through improper dental care, catheters, and illicit intravenous (IV) drug use.
• Risk factors may include older age, artificial heart valves, damaged heart valves, congenital heart valves, implanted heart device, a history of endocarditis, history of drug use, poor dental health, and long-term catheter use.
• Diagnosis may include blood culture, complete blood count, echocardiogram, chest x-ray, and CT.
• Treatment may include high doses of IV antibiotics, antifungals, and possible surgery.

Sources:

• Endocarditis - Diagnosis and treatment - Mayo Clinic
• endocarditis - Google Search