Signs and Symptoms of Infectious Endocarditis

Infectious endocarditis is a serious condition that affects the inner lining of the heart chambers and valves. Recognizing the early signs can be crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. The following are common clinical manifestations associated with this disease:

1. Heart Murmurs

Newly developed heart murmurs or a change in the intensity of pre-existing murmurs is a key indicator of infectious endocarditis. This occurs due to the inflammation and damage caused by infection on the heart valves, which disrupts normal blood flow and produces abnormal sounds detectable through auscultation.

2. Arterial Embolism

One of the more dangerous complications of this condition is the occurrence of arterial embolism. As infected material (vegetations) breaks loose from the heart valves, it can travel through the bloodstream and lodge in various arteries. This may lead to blockages in arteries such as the hepatic, splenic, or cerebral arteries, potentially causing organ damage or stroke-like symptoms.

3. Skin-Related Symptoms

Common Dermatological Signs:

Several skin-related symptoms are associated with infectious endocarditis, often linked to immune responses triggered by the infection. These include:

• Painful nodules on the fingers or toes
• Linear subungual hemorrhages, or small areas of bleeding under the fingernails
• Small purple or reddish-purple lesions on the fingertips or palms, known as Osler's nodes

These cutaneous signs, while not always present, can provide important diagnostic clues when combined with other symptoms. Understanding the diverse manifestations of infectious endocarditis is essential for prompt medical evaluation and effective management.