Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 21, 2025

Investigating Aortic Valve Calcification via Isolation and Culture of T Lymphocytes using Feeder Cells from Irradiated Buffy Coat
Published on: February 4, 2021
Exploring the Risk Factors and Possible Role of Calcium in Infective Endocarditis
Yen-Shou Kuo1, Yuan-Ming Tsai1,2
1Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei City 11490, Taiwan.
Abstract:
Infective endocarditis (IE) is a severe and potentially life-threatening infection that affects the endocardium, the inner lining of the heart chambers and valves. Although rare, it is a potentially fatal condition, with an incidence of 3-10 cases per 100,000 people per year in developed countries and a mortality rate of up to 30% within 30 days. Early identification and diagnosis are critical for improving outcomes. The diagnosis of IE typically involves a combination of biomarkers, blood cultures, and echocardiography. However, currently, there are no specific biomarkers for the early detection of IE. Given the lack of specific biomarkers for IE, serum calcium levels have been suggested to play a unique role in IE. There have been few articles on the correlation between serum calcium and IE, suggesting that patients with endocarditis and lower levels of serum calcium may have a poorer prognosis. Therefore, in this article, we focus on biomarkers of endocarditis and discuss the evidence showing serum calcium as a potential indicator of IE.
Related Concept Videos
Endocarditis I: Introduction
Endocarditis II: Clinical Features of Infective Endocarditis
Endocarditis IV: Nursing Management
Endocarditis III: Medical Management
Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin...
Rheumatic Heart Disease I: Introduction

