A Potential Role of Hematologic Abnormalities as Prognostic Markers an Infective Endocarditis (IE)

Abstract

Infective Endocarditis is a highly morbid disease whose diagnosis is largely based on the modified Duke Criteria. These criteria are mainly developed by expert opinion due to the low incidence of the disease, the low number of randomized trials, and the limited number of me-ta-analyses, making the evidence of their recommendations relatively low with major gaps. A prompt diagnosis of IE is crucial to avoid serious complications. However, the great clinical variability and non-specific manifestations, constitute diagnostic challenges. Hematologic abnormalities, especially anemia are frequently associated with IE. However, they have not been widely explored as potential diagnostic and prognostic parameters in IE patients. In this article, we explored the common hematologic abnormalities in IE patients and the available evidence of the impact of their changes on diagnosis and risk stratification in these patients.