Endocarditis usually occurs in someone with a pre-existing heart condition, and is usually caused by bacteria. This underlying condition makes the heart susceptible to infection. The source of the bacteria is often unknown, but it can result from dental or other medical procedures. People with pre-existing heart conditions therefore need to be careful when undergoing such procedures, and may need to take antibiotics before even routine dental cleanings to reduce the risk of infection.
When the bacteria spreads to the heart, it can lodge in the valves and eat away at the tissue. The bacteria can also cause growths, which can potentially dislodge and act as a blood clot. This can lead to a stroke, or, if the clot travels to the kidney and liver, complications with those organs. The infection may damage the heart alone or spread to other parts of the body. If not treated properly, the bacteria can damage the heart enough to cause serious heart valve disease or heart failure.
Previous heart conditions that increase risk of endocarditis include:
Sources of bacterial infection include:
- Teeth cleaning
- Tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy
- Bronchoscopy
- Gall bladder or prostate surgery
