Pathology of Endocarditis and Other Intravascular Infections

Demonstration of infection by pathology is important in definitively establishing the diagnosis of infective endocarditis (IE). This chapter emphasizes the importance of valve and device examination in the work-up of patients with definite or possible IE. The differences in the pathology of native valve and prosthetic valve endocarditis will also be demonstrated, as well as locally invasive lesions associated with IE. Lastly, common pitfalls and differential diagnosis of IE are discussed.