Protocolo de indicaciones y profilaxis de la endocarditis infecciosa

Abstract

Infective endocarditis is a serious disease usually caused by bacteria and, in rare cases, fungi. Proper management involves both preventive measures and specific therapeutic strategies. Infective endocarditis prophylaxis is indicated in patients at high risk, such as those with prosthetic heart valves, a history of previous endocarditis, or high-risk congenital heart disease and is mainly recommended in invasive dental procedures associated with bacteremia. The use of prophylactic antibiotics, such as amoxicillin, is a standard measure in these cases. Treatment of endocarditis is based on prolonged administration of intravenous antibiotics targeting the causative agent identified via blood cultures. In complicated situations, such as heart failure, abscesses, or infection of prosthetic heart valves, surgical management may be necessary. Early detection based on clinical and echocardiographic criteria is essential to improve the prognosis and reduce the serious complications of this disease.