ABSTRACT
Infective endocarditis is an uncommon but a serious and dangerous condition. Transthoracic echo is the recommended first-line imaging modality in patients with suspected infective endocarditis. This chapter examines the common causes of infective endocarditis, the clinical features and the diagnostic (modified Duke) criteria. The key echo features of infective endocarditis – vegetations, valvular destruction, abscess and fistula – are discussed, together with diagnostic pitfalls and the role of transthoracic versus transoesophageal echo. The features of replacement valve endocarditis are also described. The importance of echo in evaluating the prognosis of infective endocarditis is considered, and the key points regarding management and follow-up are discussed. Finally, non-infective causes of endocarditis are also considered.
