Infective endocarditis

Acta Clin Belg. 2008 Nov-Dec;63(6):414-7. doi: 10.1179/acb.2008.085.

Abstract

The diagnosis of infective endocarditis remains difficult. The complication rate is very high. Serious complications may occur and the overall mortality is still 20-25%. The sooner the treatment is started, the better the final result. Antibiotic therapy is essential but cardiac surgery is frequently necessary. Early surgery improves outcome. A multidisciplinary approach by internal medicine, cardiology and cardiac surgery facilitates the efficiency of diagnosis and treatment.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Endocarditis* / complications
  • Endocarditis* / diagnosis
  • Endocarditis* / therapy
  • Humans