Endocarditis and Staphylococcus aureus

Endocarditis and <span class="lexicon-modal"><a href="https://www.frequenz-therapie.com/en/lexikon/staphylococcus-aureus-and-frequency-therapy/" title="Staphylococcus aureus" data-ajax-modal="modal" data-original-title="Staphylococcus aureus ist ein grampositives Bakterium, das häufig auf der menschlichen Haut und Schleimhäuten vorkommt. Obwohl es Teil der natürlichen Mikrobiota ist, kann es unter bestimmten Bedingungen Infektionen auslösen, von harmlosen Hautreizungen bis hin zu lebensbedrohlichen Erkrankungen. Besonders bedeutsam ist die zunehmende Antibiotikaresistenz, die effektive Behandlungen erschwert. Prävention durch Hygiene ist entscheidend, um das Risiko zu minimieren." data-url="https://www.frequenz-therapie.com/en/cbax/lexicon/modalInfo/01932a8111ee71f084efe5ca2cad3d88">Staphylococcus aureus</a></span>

Endocarditis and Staphylococcus aureus: a dangerous combination

What is endocarditis?

Endocarditis is a severe inflammation of the inner lining of the heart that affects the heart valves. The pathogen often settles on pre-damaged or artificial heart valves and can significantly impair blood flow and heart function

The role of Staphylococcus aureus

Staphylococcus aureus is one of the main causes of bacterial endocarditis. The bacterium can enter the heart through open wounds, medical interventions or the bloodstream . Patients with previous damage or artificial heart valves and a weakened immune system are particularly at risk. MRSA poses a particular challenge in this regard

Symptoms of endocarditis

Fever and chills
Heart murmur (new or altered)
Tiredness and weakness
Shortness of breath
Pain in the chest
Small, painful lumps (Osler nodules)
Petechiae (red spots on the skin and mucous membranes)

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on blood cultures, echocardiography and laboratory tests to identify inflammatory markers and the pathogen. These procedures provide with crucial information for further treatment

Treatment

Antibiotics: Intravenous antibiotics over several weeks for targeted treatment.
Surgical interventions: Repair or replacement of damaged heart valves in severe cases.
Supportive measures: Treatment of underlying diseases and strengthening of the immune system.

Prevention

Good oral hygiene to reduce bacterial infections
Antibiotic prophylaxis before medical procedures in high-risk patients
Careful care of medical devices such as catheters
Early treatment of bacterial infections