Color Atlas of Infective Endocarditis

Infective endocarditis is a condition that still carries a high morbidity and mortality rate (20-30%) despite modern antibiotics and surgical treatment. The infection, usually caused by bacteria, invades the innermost lining of the heart and can damage heart valves, connective tissue and the heart chambers themselves. Rapid diagnosis, effective treatment, and prompt recognition of complications are essential to good patient outcome. If untreated, mortality is extremely high. The prevalence of in