Etiology
     Transient bacteremia following an injury that seeds a patient's valve(s)
     Abnormal valves predispose to endocarditis because turbulent flow denudes the endocardium, inviting bacterial colonization
     Infection of native heart valves is most commonly caused by Streptococcus viridans
Sx
     Progressive fatigue
     Chronic waxing and waning low-grade fever
Tx
     Empiric broad-spectrum antibacterial coverage upon admission
          e.g. Vancomycin + Gentamicin
     Obtain cultures and sensitivities
          S. viridans highly susceptible to penicillin is best treated with IV penicillin G or IV ceftriaxone
     Do not use an oral antibiotic to treat endocarditis

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The Compendium platform was created by David Kwinter, MD, CCFP(EM).