An inflammation of the endocardium, the inner layer of the heart, which usually involves the heart valves.

An inflammation of the heart lining or valves, usually caused by bacterial infection.

Endocarditis, also called infective endocarditis (IE), is an inflammation of the inner lining of the heart. The most common type, bacterial endocarditis, occurs when germs enter your heart. These germs come through your bloodstream from another part of your body, often your mouth. Bacterial endocarditis can damage your heart valves. If untreated, it can be life-threatening. It is rare in healthy hearts. Risk factors include having An abnormal or damaged heart valve; An artificial heart valve; Congenital heart defects. The signs and symptoms of IE can vary from person to person. They also can vary over time in the same person. Symptoms you might notice include fever, shortness of breath, fluid buildup in your arms or legs, tiny red spots on your skin, and weight loss. Your doctor will diagnose IE based on your risk factors, medical history, signs and symptoms, and lab and heart tests. Early treatment can help you avoid complications. Treatment usually involves high-dose antibiotics. If your heart valve is damaged, you may need surgery. If you're at risk for IE, brush and floss your teeth regularly, and have regular dental checkups. Germs from a gum infection can enter your bloodstream. If you are at high risk, your doctor might prescribe antibiotics before dental work and certain types of surgery. NIH

Exudative and proliferative inflammatory alterations of the endocardium, characterized by the presence of vegetations on the surface of the endocardium or in the endocardium itself, and most commonly involving a heart valve, but sometimes affecting the inner lining of the cardiac chambers or the endocardium elsewhere; may occur as a primary disorder or as a complication of or in association with another disease.

Inflammation of the endocardium.

Inflammation of the inner lining of the heart (ENDOCARDIUM), the continuous membrane lining the four chambers and HEART VALVES. It is often caused by microorganisms including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and rickettsiae. Left untreated, endocarditis can damage heart valves and become life-threatening.

Endocarditis is an infection of the endocardium, which is the inner lining of your heart chambers and heart valves.

Endocarditis, inflammation of the heart lining, or endocardium. Endocarditis is caused by any of a number of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, rickettsias, and possibly viruses, that enter the bloodstream and become trapped in the heart. The disease is characterized by the presence of...