Septic endocarditis is a potentially life-threatening infection of the heart valves caused by bacteria. The word 'septic' is spelled as /sɛptɪk/ and refers to the presence of harmful organisms in the bloodstream. 'Endocarditis' is spelled as /ɛndokɑrdɪtɪs/ and refers to inflammation of the inner lining of the heart chambers and valves. Together, the spelling of 'septic endocarditis' accurately represents the complex medical condition and highlights the importance of correct spelling in the medical field to avoid miscommunication and errors in treatment.
Septic endocarditis, also known as infective endocarditis, is a serious condition characterized by inflammation and infection of the inner lining of the heart chambers and valves. It occurs when bacteria, fungi, or other microorganisms enter the bloodstream and attach to the damaged or abnormal heart valves or other areas of the heart.
In septic endocarditis, the microorganisms trigger an immune response, leading to the formation of small clumps of cells and debris called vegetations. These vegetations can grow and accumulate along the heart valves, disrupting their normal function and promoting the formation of blood clots. As a result, the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently may be compromised.
Septic endocarditis often develops in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions, such as congenital heart defects, damaged heart valves, or previous episodes of endocarditis. Common symptoms may include fever, fatigue, chills, night sweats, weight loss, joint pain, and prolonged or recurrent infections.
If left untreated, septic endocarditis can lead to serious complications, such as heart failure, stroke, abscess formation, and septic embolisms that can affect organs throughout the body. Diagnosis involves blood tests, echocardiography, and sometimes invasive procedures like cardiac catheterization.
Treatment typically involves a combination of intravenous antibiotics to eliminate the infection, along with managing any complications. In severe cases or when antibiotic treatment fails, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair or replace damaged heart valves.
Overall, septic endocarditis is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires prompt medical intervention to prevent further deterioration of the heart and associated complications.
Malignant e.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "septic endocarditis" can be broken down into two parts:
1. Septic: The term "septic" is derived from the Latin word "septicus", which means "infection" or "decaying". It ultimately comes from the Greek word "sēptikos", meaning "causing putrefaction". In medical terminology, "septic" refers to a condition caused by infection from pathogenic bacteria or other microorganisms.
2. Endocarditis: The term "endocarditis" is composed of two Greek words. "Endo" means "inside" or "within", and "carditis" refers to "inflammation of the heart". So, "endocarditis" is the inflammation of the inner lining of the heart, particularly the heart valves.