Endocarditis
Synonyms
Endocarditides
Endocarditides, Infective
Endocarditis, Infective
Infective Endocarditides
Infective Endocarditis
Inflammation of the inner lining of the heart (ENDOCARDIUM), the continuous membrane lining the four chambers and HEART VALVES. It is often caused by microorganisms including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and rickettsiae. Left untreated, endocarditis can damage heart valves and become life-threatening.