Endocarditis

Endocarditis, clinically referred to as infective endocarditis, occurs when microorganisms such as bacteria or fungi enter the bloodstream and attach to damaged heart tissue or prosthetic heart valves. This infection primarily affects the endocardium, which is the smooth membrane that lines the interior of the heart's chambers and valves.

As the microbes multiply, they can form clumps of germs and cell fragments known as vegetations that may interfere with normal cardiac function. While the condition is less common in individuals with healthy hearts, it is more frequently observed in those with pre-existing structural heart defects, artificial valves, or other history of heart valve disease.