Subacute Infective Endocarditis: Symptoms and Overview

Subacute infective endocarditis is a type of infection that affects the inner lining of the heart chambers and valves. It occurs when bacteria, fungi, viruses, rickettsiae, or chlamydia directly invade the heart tissue. Unlike the acute form, this condition develops gradually and often presents with nonspecific symptoms such as general malaise, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and mild fever.

Common Symptoms of Subacute Infective Endocarditis

Fever is the most prevalent symptom, although its pattern can be irregular. It may appear as remittent fever, where body temperature fluctuates but remains elevated, or as intermittent fever, which comes and goes. Patients may also experience chills, night sweats, and a general feeling of being cold. The body temperature typically ranges between 37.5°C and 39°C, although in some cases it can exceed 40°C or remain only slightly above normal.

Additional Clinical Manifestations

Anemia is another frequently observed symptom, affecting up to 70% of patients. This condition tends to progress as the infection persists and is often linked to bone marrow suppression caused by the underlying infection. Patients may feel unusually tired or short of breath due to the reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of their blood.

Musculoskeletal pain is also a notable feature of subacute infective endocarditis. This includes joint pain, lower back pain, and generalized muscle aches. These symptoms can sometimes mimic other rheumatologic or musculoskeletal disorders, making early diagnosis more challenging.