Interv Akut Kardiol. 2010;9(2):81-85

Treatment and prevention of infective endocarditis

Radek Pelouch

I. interní klinika, FN Hradec Králové a LF UK v Hradci Králové

Infective endokarditis (IE) remains a very serious illness and neither the incidence nor the mortality have decreased in the past decades.

Eradication of microbes by antimicrobial drugs is the cornerstone of successful treatment. Antibiotic treatment should be targeted on the

basis of positive blood cultures. Cell wall inhibitors (β-lactams, glycopeptides) in combination with aminoglycosides are used the most

frequently. Surgery is indicated in approximately fifty percent of patiens because of severe complications (heart failure, uncontrolled

infection, prevention of systemic embolism). Because of the complexity of that illness, multispecialty approach is necessary. Updated

recommendations for prevention of IE have dramatically changed long-established practise. Antibiotic prophylaxis is now advised only

for the highest risk patients undergoing the highest risk dental procedures.

Keywords: infective endokarditis, treatment, prevention

Published: April 1, 2010  Show citation