Bacterial Endocarditis | Diagnosis & Treatment

How is bacterial endocarditis diagnosed?

Bacterial endocarditis is usually diagnosed with a blood test. Other tests might include:

Can bacterial endocarditis be prevented?

There are ways to help prevent bacterial endocarditis in children and adults with congenital heart defects:

  • Maintain excellent oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, and have regular visits to the dentist for professional cleaning and check-ups.
  • Taking an oral antibiotic before any procedure that could put the person at risk for this infection.
  • Follow your cardiologist recommendations before any procedures.

What are the treatment options for bacterial endocarditis?

In many cases, the infection can be treated with strong antibiotics given through an IV over the course of several weeks. But because bacterial endocarditis may cause severe damage to the heart lining and heart valves before the infection can be controlled, some patients may require surgery.