Infective Endocarditis in Adults

The clinical features of this complex infection have changed in the past several decades. It is now an infection of older people, and mitral-valve prolapse is the most common predisposing cardiovascular problem in developed countries. In contrast, rheumatic heart disease is an important predisposing problem in developing countries. This review article provides a comprehensive assessment of this serious infectious disease, including diagnostic challenges, cardiovascular and neurologic complications, and approaches to therapy.