WebMD
Font Size
A
A
A

Endocarditis

Endocarditis is an infection of a heart valve that is caused by bacteria or, rarely, fungi.

People who have damaged or artificial heart valves and certain types of heart murmurs have an increased risk of developing endocarditis. They often need to take antibiotics before certain procedures (such as dental work), surgery, or tests that may increase their risk of infection.

Endocarditis is treated with long-term antibiotics or, in serious cases, with surgery to replace damaged heart valves. If not treated, endocarditis can cause stroke, septicemia (blood poisoning), heart failure, or kidney failure.

Author Robin Parks, MS
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer Caroline S. Rhoads, MD
- Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Stephen Fort, MD, MRCP, FRCPC
- Interventional Cardiology
Last Updated April 25, 2007

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: April 25, 2007
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
@ 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.