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Conditions & Services / Endocarditis

Cardiologists & Vascular Specialists located in Dallas Fort Worth and the North Texas Region

Endocarditis

About Endocarditis


Endocarditis Q & A

What is Endocarditis?

Infection and/or inflammation of heart valve(s) may be due to bacteria (rarely fungus or virus) in the blood stream attaching to and damaging the heart valves; in other cases, the immune system may attack the valves (auto-immune).

What are the Symptoms of Endocarditis?

Signs and symptoms of endocarditis may include:

  • Fever
  • Murmur
  • Fatigue
  • Weight loss
  • Muscle and/or joint pain
  • Painful sores on your fingers/toes
  • Red spots on your palms/soles
  • Dark lines in the finger nails

How is Endocarditis Diagnosed?

  • Testing for endocarditis may include:​
  • Blood cultures
  • Transthoracic Echocardiogram (TTE)
  • Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE)
  • Electrocardiogram (EKG)
  • Chest X-ray
  • CT and/or MRI scan

How is Endocarditis Treated?

Endocarditis treatment usually consists of intravenous antibiotics but in cases of significant bacterial build up, abscess, embolism and/or valve damage, surgery may be required to repair or replace the valve.