Endocarditis

This chapter deals with the inflammation of the innermost layer of the heart, namely the Endocardium. It may be part of a more extensive lesion which may include myocarditis and pericarditis as in acute rheumatic fever in childhood or it may occur as an isolated lesion usually later in life. After reading this chapter one will be familiar with the causes of Endocarditis, due to genetic lesions or environmental causes, become aware of its clinical course, know the role of Echocardiogram in diagnosing the condition, familiarize with the complications and learn the treatment options.