Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 12, 2026
07:50
An In Vitro Model of a Parallel-Plate Perfusion System to Study Bacterial Adherence to Graft Tissues
Published on: January 7, 2019
Lead-dependent infective endocarditis: an old problem, a new name
Barbara Małecka1, Andrzej Kutarski
1Department of Electrocardiology, Institute of Cardiology, Jagiellonian University Collegium Medicum, John Paul II Hospital in Krakow, Kraków, Poland. barbara_malecka@o2.pl
Cardiology Journal
|June 15, 2010
Summary
Right heart endocarditis in patients with pacemakers or defibrillators requires specific attention. Early diagnosis via echocardiography and prompt treatment with antibiotics and device removal are crucial.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Medical Device Technology
Background:
- Right heart endocarditis is a serious complication in patients with permanent pacemakers (PM) or implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICD).
- Distinguishing lead-dependent infective endocarditis from other forms is critical for appropriate management.
- Existing literature reviews often do not sufficiently emphasize this distinction.
Observation:
- Patients with PM/ICD presenting with pulmonary signs warrant thorough investigation.
- Transesophageal echocardiography is a key diagnostic tool for identifying lead-related vegetations and complications.
- Infective endocarditis associated with cardiac electronic devices presents unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
Findings:
- A literature review highlights the importance of differentiating lead-dependent infective endocarditis in PM/ICD patients.
- Transesophageal echocardiography is recommended for screening patients with PM/ICD and pulmonary symptoms.
- The optimal treatment strategy involves a combination of antibiotic therapy and removal of the pacemaker or defibrillator system.
Implications:
- This review advocates for increased clinical focus on lead-dependent infective endocarditis in the context of cardiac electronic devices.
- Improved diagnostic protocols, including routine echocardiographic screening, can lead to earlier detection and intervention.
- Standardizing treatment approaches, emphasizing device removal alongside antibiotics, may improve patient outcomes and reduce morbidity.
Related Concept Videos
01:25Endocarditis I: Introduction
Introduction:Endocarditis is the infection of the endocardium, the inner lining of the heart and its valves. When the heart muscle is involved, the condition is termed myocarditis, while an infection of the outer lining is called pericarditis. Infective endocarditis (IE) primarily affects the endocardium, where pathogens adhere to the valves or lining, forming vegetation that can lead to severe complications. Infective endocarditis occurs when microorganisms, usually bacteria from other body...
01:25Endocarditis II: Clinical Features of Infective Endocarditis
Endocarditis can present various clinical features depending on the causative organism and the patient's underlying health conditions. Initially, the clinical features of infective endocarditis develop gradually, presenting with nonspecific symptoms that can be easily mistaken for other illnesses.General SymptomsEarly symptoms of infective endocarditis are fever, chills, weakness, malaise, fatigue, and weight loss. These symptoms reflect the systemic nature of the infection and the body's...
01:29Endocarditis IV: Nursing Management
Infective endocarditis (IE) is a chronic infection of the heart's endocardium, primarily affecting the heart valves. A detailed nursing assessment for a patient with IE involves collecting subjective and objective data to ensure an accurate diagnosis and timely intervention.Subjective DataThe nurse gathers information about the patient's symptoms and complaints during the subjective assessment. Patients with infective endocarditis often report non-specific symptoms that can mimic other...
01:18Endocarditis III: Medical Management
Infective endocarditis management involves a multifaceted approach encompassing infection prevention, lifestyle modifications, pharmacological therapy, and surgical management.Infection Prevention:Hand Hygiene: Thorough handwashing is crucial to prevent the spread of infection. Hand hygiene should be performed regularly, especially before and after using the restroom.Oral Hygiene: Good oral hygiene is essential. It includes brushing teeth immediately after waking up and before bed, flossing...
01:23Rheumatic Heart Disease I: Introduction
Rheumatic heart disease or RHD is a chronic condition that results from rheumatic fever, causing permanent damage to the heart valves.Etiology and Risk FactorsIt primarily arises from rheumatic fever, an inflammatory disease that can develop after untreated or inadequately treated group A streptococcal (GAS) pharyngitis. Streptococcus spreads through direct contact with oral or respiratory secretions. While the bacteria are the causative agents, factors like malnutrition, overcrowding, poor...
01:22Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction
Mitral Valve Stenosis (MVS) is a heart condition where the mitral valve narrows, impeding blood circulation from the left atrium to the left ventricle. The etiology and pathophysiology of this condition are multifaceted, leading to a cascade of cardiovascular complications.Causes of Mitral Valve StenosisRheumatic Heart Disease: It is the main cause of mitral valve stenosis, particularly in developing nations. This condition arises from rheumatic fever, an inflammatory illness resulting from...