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Infective endocarditis in South Africa
Alfonso Jan Pecoraro1, Anton Frans Doubell1
1Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Stellenbosch University and Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa.
Cardiovascular Diagnosis and Therapy
|May 19, 2020
Summary
Infective endocarditis (IE) presents differently in developed and developing nations. This study highlights IE in South Africa, a developing country, noting younger patients and specific infections, with high mortality rates persisting globally.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Infective endocarditis (IE) is a serious heart infection affecting native or prosthetic valves and cardiac devices.
- IE epidemiology differs significantly between developed and developing countries.
- Limited data exists on IE epidemiology in South Africa, a developing nation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the epidemiology of infective endocarditis in South Africa.
- To compare IE characteristics in a developing country context with developed nations.
Main Methods:
- Review of available epidemiological data on infective endocarditis in South Africa.
- Analysis of patient demographics, causative organisms, and underlying heart conditions.
Main Results:
- Infective endocarditis in South Africa predominantly affects younger patients.
- Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is a common predisposing factor.
- Penicillin-sensitive Streptococcal infections are frequently implicated.
Conclusions:
- Infective endocarditis in South Africa reflects a developing country profile, distinct from developed nations.
- Despite advances, the 1-year mortality rate for IE remains high globally at approximately 30%.
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