1 Exotoxins are proteins released by both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. 2  all major Gram-positives produce exotoxin. 3  except Listeria monocytogenes (produces endotoxin). 4  exotoxins are not heat stable.
Endocarditis (EN-do-kar-DI-tis) is an infection of the inner lining of the heart chambers and valves. This lining is called the endocardium (en-do-KAR-de-um). The condition also is called infective endocarditis (IE). The term endocarditis also is used to describe an inflammation of the endocardium due to other conditions. This article only discusses endocarditis related to infection. IE occurs if bacteria, fungi, or other germs invade your bloodstream and attach to abnormal areas of your heart.
Endocarditis is an infection of a heart valve or the inner lining of the heart (the endocardium). Infection can damage or destroy the heart valves and damage the heart.Endocarditis usually occurs in patients with congenital (i.e., present at birth) or acquired heart conditions (e.g., atrial septal defects, valve disease). Although several different organisms can cause endocarditis, it is usually caused by bacteria.In most cases, it develops when normal bacteria on the skin or in the respiratory, gastrointestinal, or urinary tract enter the bloodstream and lodge within a damaged heart valve or abnormal heart tissue.ndocarditis Causes & Risk Factors. Most cases of endocarditis are caused by a bacterial infection. Patients who have a congenital or acquired heart condition have an increased risk for endocarditis. The condition is rare when heart disease is not present.