Infective endocarditis in adults
Rozwodowska, M.; Rozwodowska, M.; Gospodarek, E.; Swiatkiewicz, I.; Kubik-Swierczyńska, H.; Zwierzchlewski, T.; Nartowicz, E.
Przeglad Epidemiologiczny 55(Suppl 3): 14-22
2001
ISSN/ISBN: 0033-2100 PMID: 11984941 Document Number: 529711
The aim of the research was to demonstrate that the early diagnosis of infective endocarditis influences significantly the results of treatment. The following clinical analysis covered 56 patients, aged 18 to 81 (the average age--50 years) with infective endocarditis treated in the years 1998-2000. Data from patient history, physical examination, laboratory investigations and treatment were analysed. Apart from clinical symptoms for infective endocarditis diagnosis, also blood cultures and echocardiography were important. Infective endocarditis was present in 24 patients (42.8%) with heart defects, 7 (12.5%) with prosthetic heart valves, and 4 (7.1%) treated with haemodialysis. In 38 (67.8%) individuals, the echocardiography showed vegetations, and in 14 (25.0%) other abnormalities. Blood cultures were positive in 33 (58.9%) patients. Fever was present in 47 (83.9%) patients. The progression of heart failure appeared in 26 (46.4%) individuals. The average time of antibiotic therapy was 34 days. 11 (19.6%) patients died. 9 (16.1%) individuals had cardiosurgery operations. Early diagnosis of infective endocarditis is substantial as it improves patients' prognosis as to health and life.