Infective Endocarditis in Pediatric Patients
What is Infective Endocarditis?
Infective endocarditis is an infection of the lining of the heart. This infection can occur in any person (infant, child or adult) who has heart disease present at birth (congenital heart disease), or can occur in people without heart disease. Infective endocarditis does not occur very often, but when it does, it can cause serious heart damage. It is very important to prevent this infection from occurring, if possible.
How Does the Infection Occur?
Infective endocarditis occurs when bacteria (germs) enter the bloodstream and lodge inside the heart, where they multiply and cause infection.
A normal heart has a smooth lining, making it difficult for bacteria to stick to it. However, persons with congenital heart disease may have a roughened area on the heart lining caused by pressure from an abnormal opening or a leaky valve. Even after surgery, roughened areas may remain due to scar tissue formation or patches used to redirect blood flow. These rough areas inside the heart are inviting, opportune places for bacteria to build up and multiply.
How Does the Bacteria Get Inside the Body?
Bacteria can enter the body in many ways. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), some of the most common ways include the following:
- Dental procedures (including professional teeth cleaning)
- Tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy
- Examination of the respiratory passageways with an instrument known as a rigid bronchoscope
- Certain types of surgery on the respiratory passageways, the gastrointestinal tract, or the urinary tract
- Gallbladder or prostate surgery
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