CLINICAL, EPIDEMIOLOGICAL AND THERAPEUTIC APPROACH TO INFECTIOUS ENDOCARDITIS: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Background: This study consists of an integrative review of Infectious Endocarditis (IE), a serious disease characterized by infection of the endocardium, usually affecting the heart valves. IE can have an insidious or rapid progression and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. The condition represents a clinical challenge due to its varied presentation and the need for early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. OBJECTIVES: The objective of the study was to analyze the scenario of infective endocarditis in Brazil and discuss the main clinical, epidemiological and therapeutic aspects of the disease, aiming to contribute to the expansion of knowledge on the subject and strategies for its management. METHODOLOGY: Electronic bibliographic surveys were carried out in the BVS®, LILACS® and SCIELO® databases. The historical period of publications was established from 2019 to 2024, and only articles published in Portuguese were selected. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The results indicated that infective endocarditis is more prevalent in men and in individuals with preexisting cardiovascular comorbidities, especially those with prosthetic valves and injectable drug users. The most common etiologic agents were Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus of the viridans group. Initial empirical antibiotic treatment included beta-lactams associated with aminoglycosides and, in some cases, the need for surgical intervention to remove vegetations or valve replacement. Prevention was mainly addressed through antibiotic prophylaxis in patients at risk and early diagnosis to avoid complications. CONCLUSION: The article highlights the importance of early recognition of infective endocarditis, adherence to appropriate antimicrobial treatment, and surgical intervention when necessary. In addition, it reinforces the need for greater awareness among the population and health professionals to reduce mortality and complications associated with the disease.