Endocarditis is an inflammation of the inner lining of the heart (endocardium).
In a large percentage of clinical cases, the cause is an infection - a fungus, bacteria, or other microbe from anywhere in the body enters the bloodstream and ends up in the damaged area of the heart.
To make a diagnosis, the doctor will conduct a physical examination, get acquainted with the medical history and symptoms.
The following types of studies are recommended for diagnosis:
Many patients are treated with antibiotics. In some clinical cases, surgery is required to completely eliminate signs of infection.
Heart valve surgery is performed when a persistent endocarditis infection needs to be treated or a damaged valve needs to be replaced.
Sometimes surgery is needed if the endocarditis is caused by a fungal infection. Depending on your specific condition, your doctor may recommend heart valve replacement.
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/endocarditis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352582
