Endocarditis

Synonyms

Endocarditides

Endocarditides, Infective

Endocarditis, Infective

Infective Endocarditides

Infective Endocarditis

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.