Infective endocarditis: an update on the role of echocardiography.
The evaluation of valvular and nonvalvular structures is of central importance in the diagnosis, management, and treatment of infective endocarditis (IE). The incidence of IE has remained constant due to changing substrate, with notably higher prevalence observed in the elderly. Mortality and morbidity continue to remain high, despite advances in medical and surgical treatment. This article reviews the technical and practical aspects of the use of echocardiography to evaluate patients with suspected IE.
Ansari
Asimul
A
Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 676 North Saint Clair Street, Suite 600, Chicago, IL 60611-2981, USA. ansari01@hotmail.com
Rigolin
Vera H
VH
D004452:Echocardiography; D019560:Echocardiography, Three-Dimensional; D017548:Echocardiography, Transesophageal; D004696:Endocarditis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000188:drug therapy; D019918:Heart Valve Prosthesis Implantation / Q000009:adverse effects; D006801:Humans; D016459:Prosthesis-Related Infections / Q000209:etiology; D012214:Rheumatic Heart Disease / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000188:drug therapy; D018570:Risk Assessment; D013211:Staphylococcus aureus