Cardiac imaging in infectious endocarditis

Evaluation of the specificity of the 2023 European Society of Cardiology classification for infective endocarditis

BACKGROUND

The 2023 Duke-ISCVID and 2023 ESC classifications have recently issued independent diagnostic criteria for infective endocarditis (IE), updating the 2015 ESC criteria.

OBJECTIVES

The specificity of the 2023 ESC criteria should be evaluated and compared to the two other classifications in IE suspected patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively collected the characteristics of patients hospitalised in Bichat University Hospital, in 2021, who had been evaluated for suspicion of IE, and in whom IE diagnosis was finally rejected. All were classified by 2015 ESC, 2023 Duke-ISCVID, and 2023 ESC.

RESULTS

In total 130 patients were analysed. Mean age was 62 years, 64.6% were male, 30.0% had prosthetic cardiac valve or valve repair, 16.2% had cardiac implanted electronic device, and 23.1% other cardiac conditions. Overall, 2, 5 and 5 patients were falsely classified as definite IE with the 2015 ESC, 2023 Duke-ISCVID and 2023 ESC criteria, respectively. The corresponding specificities were 99% (95% CI [94%; 100%], 96% (95% CI [91%; 99%]), and 96% (95% CI [91%; 99%]).

CONCLUSION

The 2023 ESC and the 2023 Duke-ISCVID criteria are highly specific, although slightly less than the 2015 ESC criteria, for ruling out the diagnosis of definite IE.HIGHLIGHTS2023 Duke-ISCVID and 2023 ESC criteria are recently issued diagnostic classifications2023 ESC criteria have an excellent specificity, equivalent to the 2023 Duke-ISCVID one2023 ESC criteria and the 2023 Duke-ISCVID are less specific than the 2015 ESC criteriaSpecificities were quite similar according to the nature of the cardiac valve (native or prosthetic valve) or the duration of antibiotic therapy.

Automated cardiac coverage assessment in cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging using an explainable recurrent 3D dual-domain convolutional network

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging has become a modality with superior power for the diagnosis and prognosis of cardiovascular diseases. One of the essential quality controls of CMR images is to investigate the complete cardiac coverage, which is necessary for the volumetric and functional assessment.

PURPOSE

This study examines the full cardiac coverage using a 3D dual-domain convolutional model and then improves this model using an innovative explainable salient region detection model and a recurrent architecture.

METHODS

Salient regions are extracted from the short-axis cine CMR stacks using a three-step proposed algorithm. Changing the architecture of the 3D dual-domain convolutional model to a recurrent one and taking advantage of the salient region detection model creates a kind of attention mechanism that leads to improved results.

RESULTS

The results obtained from the images of over 6200 participants of the UK Biobank population cohort study show the superiority of the proposed model over the previous studies. The dataset is the largest regarding the number of participants to control the cardiac coverage. The accuracies of the proposed model in identifying the presence/absence of basal/apical slices are 96.22% and 95.42%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The proposed recurrent architecture of the 3D dual-domain convolutional model can force the model to focus on the most informative areas of the images using the extracted salient regions, which can help the model improve accuracy. The performance of the proposed fully automated model indicates that it can be used for image quality control in population cohort datasets and real-time post-imaging quality assessments. Codes are available at https://github.com/mohammadhashemii/CMR_Cardiac_Coverage_Control.

Value of Time-Resolved Cardiac CT in Children and Young Adults with Congenital Heart Disease and Infective Endocarditis

BACKGROUND

Diagnosis of infective endocarditis (IE) can be challenging due to negative blood cultures and diagnostic limitations of various imaging modalities. Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is the gold standard imaging modality for visualization of valvular vegetations. However, due to the anterior location of the pulmonary valve, post-surgical changes, and sedation requirement, TEE can be challenging in the pediatric population. The aim of this study was to assess the value of Cardiac CT (CCT) for diagnosis of IE in children and young adults with congenital heart disease (CHD).

METHODS

This is a single-center retrospective study of pediatric patients with CHD and diagnosis of IE who underwent CCT from 2018 to 2022. Data collected included age, gender, cardiac diagnosis, clinical presentation, echocardiographic/CCT findings, and blood culture results. In addition, modified Duke criteria (MDC) for the diagnosis of IE were applied with and without CCT findings as the diagnostic imaging criterion.

RESULTS

Fourteen patients were included in this study with a median age of 11 years old. Nine patients were female. Ten patients had IE of the RV-PA conduit and four patients had IE of the aortic valve. Using MDC, 4 patients had definite IE. After including CCT findings, 11 patients (79%) met MDC for definite IE. Blood cultures were positive in 12 patients. CCT revealed the following complications: thromboembolic findings/pseudoaneurysms in 5 patients each and prosthetic valve perforation/prosthetic valve leak in one patient each.

CONCLUSIONS

This study reinforces the complimentary role of CCT to echocardiography in the work-up and diagnosis of IE in patients with CHD. With further improvement in lowering radiation exposure, CCT may have a key role in the diagnostic work-up of endocarditis and could be implemented in the diagnostic criteria of IE.

Pulmonary Valve Endocarditis: Always Look on the (B)right Side!

•PV endocarditis is a rare entity. •Severe PR has a characteristic spectral profile on continuous-wave Doppler. •Transesophageal echocardiography can help to visualize the PV.

Role of echocardiography in the diagnosis and clinical management of infective endocarditis

Infective endocarditis (IE) is a deadly disease, constituting both diagnostic and treatment challenges. A positive outcome requires rapid and accurate diagnosis, and for that, echocardiography unequivocally remains the cornerstone. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) have complementary roles and have been markedly improved during the last decades. The transthoracic modality is the recommended first-line approach but may only be sufficient in patients where the probability of IE is low and/or with clear acoustic windows, especially in patients with right-sided IE. The transesophageal modality is superior to TTE in most aspects and is recommended for all other patients. Both TTE and TEE may delineate vegetation location and size, assess for paravalvular extension of infection, and have the added advantage of defining the hemodynamic effects of valvular or device infection. However, echocardiography still has significant limitations, and novel imaging techniques are increasingly being exploited to improve diagnostic potential. Cardiac computed tomography (CT) performs better than TEE in the detection of abscess or pseudoaneurysm, while magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has limited value in the diagnostic phase of IE but adds knowledge to the evaluation of extracardiac events. Nuclear molecular techniques are evolving as key supplementary methods in difficult-to-diagnose cases. Although newer imaging modalities are undergoing preliminary evaluation and multimodal imaging will play an increasing role in IE, echocardiography will continue to be pivotal in patients with IE for the foreseeable future.

Early Surgery for Infective Endocarditis Complicated With Neurologic Injury

OBJECTIVES

To estimate the association between early surgery and the risk of mortality in patients with left-sided infective endocarditis in the context of stroke.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

This study was a multiinstitution study based on the Chang Gung Research Database, which contains electronic medical records from 7 hospitals in northern and southern Taiwan; these include 2 medical centers, 2 regional hospitals, and 3 district hospitals.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients with active left-sided infective endocarditis who underwent valve surgery between September 2002 and December 2018.

INTERVENTIONS

The authors divided patients into 2 groups, with versus without preoperative neurologic complications, had undergone early (within 7 d) or later surgery, and with brain ischemia or hemorrhage.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Three hundred ninety-two patients with a median time from diagnosis to surgery of 6 days were included. No significant differences in postoperative stroke, in-hospital mortality, or follow-up outcomes were observed between the patients with and without neurologic complications. Among the patients with preoperative neurologic complications, patients who underwent early surgery had a lower 30-day postoperative mortality rate (13.1% v 25.8%; hazard ratio, 0.21; 95% CI 0.07-0.67). In the subgroup analysis of the comparison between brain ischemia and hemorrhage groups, there was no significant between-group difference in the in-hospital outcomes or outcomes after discharge.

CONCLUSIONS

Early cardiac surgery may be associated with more favorable clinical outcomes in patients with preoperative neurologic complications. Thus, preoperative neurologic complications should not delay surgical interventions.

A non-surgical approach: Ampicillin's success in Listeria monocytogenes endocarditis

Background

Listeria monocytogenes, a Gram-positive bacillus, primarily affects immunocompromised individuals. Endocarditis is a rare but severe complication of L. monocytogenes bacteremia, irrespective of native or prosthetic valves. While there is no standardized treatment, the use of ampicillin proves effective in most cases. Surgical intervention is reserved for cases involving valve dehiscence, heart failure, or myocardial abscess.

Case presentation

A 54-year-old female, with mitral valve replacement, presented with fever, chest pain and dyspnea at rest. Patient was initially diagnosed with bacterial pneumonia; however, subsequent evaluation revealed L. monocytogenes bacteremia, resulting in endocarditis. Surgical management was contraindicated due to multiple prior valve replacement surgeries. Symptoms resolution, along with improvements in echocardiographic and clinical parameters, was achieved through extended antibiotic treatment only with no surgical intervention.

Conclusion - key takeaways

This case underscores the critical importance of individualized treatment approaches in endocarditis, particularly in patients with surgery approach contraindication, and emphasized the success achieved through ampicillin-based management.

Dual-Time-Point 18F-FDG PET/CT in Infective Endocarditis: Impact of Delayed Imaging in the Definitive Diagnosis of Endocarditis

Infective endocarditis (IE) is a major public health condition due to the associated high morbidity and mortality. Our objective was to evaluate the utility of dual-time 2-deoxy-2-[18F] fluoro-D-glucose (18F-FDG) Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (PET/CT) imaging in the diagnosis of active IE in patients with suspected native valve endocarditis (NVE) and prosthetic valve endocarditis (PVE). For this purpose, a retrospective study was carried out, including patients suspicious of NVE or PVE who underwent a dual-time-point 18F-FDG PET/CT. A final diagnosis was established by the Endocarditis Team after patient follow-up using all the available findings. Sixty-nine patients were assessed. A final diagnosis of NVE was established in 3 patients of the 34 by 18F-FDG PET/CT and in the case of PVE was established in 20 patients of the 35. A statistically significant association was found when evaluating the association between PET diagnosis at early acquisition and final diagnosis of IE (χ2 = 30.198, p < 0.001) and PET diagnosis at delayed acquisition for final diagnosis of IE (χ2 = 9.412, p = 0.002). Delayed PET/CT imaging determined the IE diagnosis in 16/58 of the studies. In conclusion, delayed 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging seems to be useful in improving the definitive diagnosis of IE.

Evaluation of the Specificity of the 2023 Duke-International Society of Cardiovascular Infectious Diseases Classification for Infective Endocarditis

BACKGROUND

The 2023 Duke-ISCVID (International Society of Cardiovascular Infectious Diseases) classification is a new diagnostic tool for infective endocarditis, updating the 2000 modified Duke and the 2015 European Society for Cardiology (ESC) classifications. In comparison, its sensitivity is higher; however, its specificity remains to be evaluated and compared to that of the 2 other classifications in endocarditis suspected patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively collected the characteristics of patients hospitalized in Bichat University's Hospital, Paris, in 2021, who had been evaluated for clinical suspicion of endocarditis, have had at least a transthoracic echocardiography, 2 pairs of blood cultures, 3-month follow-up and in whom endocarditis diagnosis was finally rejected. All patients were classified by 2000 modified Duke, 2015 ESC and 2023 Duke-ISCVID, as though the endocarditis diagnosis had not been rejected.

RESULTS

In total, 130 patients' charts were analyzed. Mean age was 62 years, 84 (64.6%) were male, 39 (30.0%) had prosthetic cardiac valve or valve repair, 21 (16.2%) cardiac implanted electronic device, and 30 (23.1%) other cardiac conditions. Overall, 5, 2, and 5 patients were falsely classified as definite endocarditis with the 2000 modified Duke, 2015 ESC, and 2023 Duke-ISCVID classifications, respectively. The corresponding specificities were 96.2% (95% confidence interval [CI] [90.8%, 98.6%]), 98.5% (95% CI [93.9%, 99.7%]), and 96.2% (95% CI [90.8%, 98.6%]). The rates of possible endocarditis were of 38%, 35%, and 35% in the 3 classifications, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The 2023 Duke-ISCVID classification is highly specific for ruling out the diagnosis of definite infective endocarditis in patients who had been evaluated for IE.

Right ventricular papillary muscle crossing the moderator band mimicked infective endocarditis: the utility of multimodal imaging

Right-sided infective endocarditis (RSIE) generally carries a positive prognosis; however, it can result in complications such as heart failure, underscoring the importance of prompt diagnosis. While echocardiography serves as the standard diagnostic tool, it may occasionally face challenges in distinguishing between normal structures and vegetations. In this report, we present the case of a 60-year-old man diagnosed with pyogenic vertebral osteomyelitis, alongside suspected coexisting RSIE. During both transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography, a rod-like mobile structure was observed adjacent to the right ventricular moderator band. However, confirming its nature as an infective vegetation proved challenging. Despite the inconclusive diagnosis of IE by echocardiography, the positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) scan and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) played a pivotal role in distinguishing between normal structures and vegetations. Since IE could develop life-threatening events, the role of multimodal imaging is of paramount importance. This case serves as a compelling example of the diagnostic value through the integration of PET/CT and MRI in ruling out IE.

Manifestations of Prosthetic Valve Endocarditis: Lessons From Multimodality Imaging and Pathological Correlation

Heart valve replacement has steadily increased over the past decades due to improved surgical mortality, an aging population, and the increasing use of transcatheter valve technology. With these developments, prosthetic valve complications, including prosthetic valve endocarditis, are increasingly encountered. In this review, we aim to characterize the manifestations of prosthetic valve endocarditis using representative case studies from our institution to highlight the advances and contributions of modern multimodality imaging techniques.

Multimodal Cardiac Imaging in the Assessment of Patients Who Have Suffered a Cardioembolic Stroke: A Review

Cardioembolic strokes account for 20-25% of all ischaemic strokes, with their incidence increasing with age. Cardiac imaging plays a crucial role in identifying cardioembolic causes of stroke, with early and accurate identification affecting treatment, preventing recurrence, and reducing stroke incidence. Echocardiography serves as the mainstay of cardiac evaluation. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is the first line in the basic evaluation of structural heart disorders, valvular disease, vegetations, and intraventricular thrombus. It can be used to measure chamber size and systolic/diastolic function. Trans-oesophageal echocardiography (TOE) yields better results in identifying potential cardioembolic sources of stroke and should be strongly considered, especially if TTE does not yield adequate results. Cardiac computed tomography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging provide better soft tissue characterisation, high-grade anatomical information, spatial and temporal visualisation, and image reconstruction in multiple planes, especially with contrast. These techniques are useful in cases of inconclusive echocardiograms and can be used to detect and characterise valvular lesions, thrombi, fibrosis, cardiomyopathies, and aortic plaques. Nuclear imaging is not routinely used, but it can be used to assess left-ventricular perfusion, function, and dimensions and may be useful in cases of infective endocarditis. Its use should be considered on a case-by-case basis. The accuracy of each imaging modality depends on the likely source of cardioembolism, and the choice of imaging approach should be tailored to individual patients.

Endocarditis in critically ill patients: a review

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To summarize the advances in literature that support the best current practices regarding infective endocarditis (IE) in critically ill patients.

RECENT FINDINGS

IE due to rheumatic diseases has decreased significantly, and in fact, the majority of cases are associated with degenerative valvopathies, prosthetic valves, and cardiovascular implantable electronic devices. The Duke criteria were recently updated, addressing the increasing incidence of new risk factors for IE, such as IE associated with the use of endovascular cardiac implantable electronic devices and transcatheter implant valves. The presence of organ dysfunction, renal replacement therapies, or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation should be considered in the choice of drug and dosage in critically ill patients with suspected or confirmed IE. As highlighted for other severe infections, monitoring of therapeutic antibiotic levels is a promising technique to improve outcomes in critically ill patients with organ dysfunction.

SUMMARY

The diagnostic investigation of IE must consider the current epidemiological criteria and the diagnostic particularities that these circumstances require. A careful evaluation of these issues is necessary for the prompt clinical or surgical management of this infection.

Contemporary management of infective endocarditis in pregnancy

INTRODUCTION

Infective endocarditis (IE) during pregnancy is a rare condition that is associated with a high level of morbidity and mortality. The epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis have changed significantly in the last two decades. The declining incidence of rheumatic heart disease, improved life expectancy with congenital heart disease, advances in cardiac surgery and cardiac devices, rise in resistant microorganisms, complications of the opioid epidemic, and increasing maternal age are some of the many factors contributing to these changes.

AREAS COVERED

This article explores existing literature on the topic including case reports, case series, registry data, and clinical guidelines. The focus of this article is the evolving epidemiology, predisposing factors and preventative measures, clinical presentation, investigation, management, and potential complications of IE in pregnancy.

EXPERT OPINION

Robust prospective data on the management of IE in pregnancy is lacking, and obtaining these data will be very challenging. It is imperative that international registries are used to provide data on best clinical practices and inform future clinical guidelines. Multimodal imaging should be incorporated in the investigation of complicated cases. A multidisciplinary approach to the management of this rare and life-threatening condition is essential to ensure the best outcomes for both the mother and the fetus.

Pulmonary Valve Endocarditis during and beyond Euro ENDO Registry: A Single Center Case Series

Background: Pulmonary valve infective endocarditis (PVIE) is a rare form of infective endocarditis (IE) and is associated with high mortality and severe complications. Guidelines for treatment of this form of IE are scarce and based on general recommendations. We report a case series of PVE. Detailed Case Description: Case 1-A 36-year-old female with congenital pulmonary artery stenosis, dyspnea and leg edema symptoms for 2 months. Blood cultures yielded Staphylococcus spp. and Corynebacterium sp., and echocardiography revealed multiple floating vegetation at the pulmonic valve and surrounding structures. The clinical course was complicated with sepsis and multi-organ failure. Urgent surgery with pulmonary homograft implantation resulted in successful five-year outcome. Case 2-In a 38-year-old male with previous tetralogy of Fallot correction and symptoms of fatigue, fever, myalgia, and photophobia, echocardiography was suggestive of PVIE. The clinical course was complicated with septic shock, multi-organ failure, ischemic stroke with hemorrhagic transformation and death on the 12th day of hospitalization. Case 3-A 41-year-old male without previous medical history was hospitalized due to prolonged fatigue, fever, dyspnea, and leg edema. He was diagnosed with multi-valve infective endocarditis, affecting the aortic, tricuspid, and pulmonary valve. Acute heart failure and hemodynamic instability indicated urgent surgery with aortic valve replacement and reconstruction of the tricuspid and pulmonary valves. At four-year follow up he was doing well. Conclusion: Symptoms in PVIE may be versatile, and diagnosis is often delayed. High level of suspicion, early recognition, and echocardiography are cornerstones in diagnostics. Despite the standpoint that medical therapy is first-line, the role of surgery needs to be advocated in particular cases.

ObsErvatioNal prospective multicenter stuDy tO characterize the cLinical ANd DiagnoStiC feAtures of endocarditis in the contemPorary Era (ENDO-LANDSCAPE study): rationale and design

BACKGROUND

Recent developments in the management of valvular heart disease and heart failure have resulted in a dramatic increase in percutaneous valve procedures and implanted devices. We hypothesize that this has impacted the epidemiology, diagnosis, and management of endocarditis.

METHODS

The obsErvatioNal prospective multicenter stuDy tO characterize the cLinical ANd DiagnoStiC feAtures of endocarditis in the contemPorary Era (ENDO-LANDSCAPE study) is an observational, multicenter, and international study aimed to examine the epidemiology of endocarditis in the contemporary era. The study will constitute of a retrospective arm for the determination of the sample size of the prospective arm, where cases of endocarditis between 2016 to 2022 at three tertiary referral institutions will be analyzed. The prospective arm will examine all consecutive patients referred for an echocardiography with a suspected or confirmed diagnosis of endocarditis, and their clinical course followed up over 12 months for adverse outcomes. The primary aim of the study will be to characterize the epidemiology of endocarditis, focusing on patients with prosthetic or implanted devices. The secondary aims would be: the appropriateness of the requests for first-line echocardiographic imaging in exclusion of endocarditis; the role of other imaging modalities in the diagnosis of endocarditis; and the impact of a specialized endocarditis team on outcomes.

IMPLICATIONS

The results of the ENDO-LANDSCAPE study will provide a contemporary update of the epidemiological trends in endocarditis. The data generated from this study would be useful in informing future clinical practice, potentially guiding future diagnostic and treatment algorithms in patients with endocarditis.

CLINICALTRIALORG ID

NCT05547607.

Post-procedural structural heart CT imaging: TAVR, TMVR, and other interventions

Transcatheter valve replacement has experienced substantial growth in the past decade and this technique can now be used for any of the four heart valves. Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has overtaken surgical aortic valve replacement. Transcatheter mitral valve replacement (TMVR) is often performed in pre-existing valves or after prior valve repair, although numerous devices are undergoing trials for replacement of native valves. Transcatheter tricuspid valve replacement (TTVR) is similarly under active development. Lastly, transcatheter pulmonic valve replacement (TPVR) is most often used for revision treatment of congenital heart disease. Given the growth of these techniques, radiologists are increasingly called upon to interpret post-procedural imaging for these patients, particularly with CT. These cases will often arise unexpectedly and require detailed knowledge of potential post-procedural appearances. We review both normal and abnormal post-procedural findings on CT. Certain complications-device migration or embolization, paravalvular leak, or leaflet thrombosis-can occur after replacement of any valve. Other complications are specific to each type of valve, including coronary artery occlusion after TAVR, coronary artery compression after TPVR, or left ventricular outflow tract obstruction after TMVR. Finally, we review access-related complications, which are of particular concern due to the requirement of large-bore catheters for these procedures.

Radionuclide Imaging of Infective Endocarditis

Infective endocarditis (IE) is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Early diagnosis is crucial for adequate patient management. Due to difficulties in the diagnosis, a multidisciplinary discussion in addition to the integration of clinical signs, microbiology data, and imaging data is used. Imaging, including echocardiography, molecular imaging techniques, and coronary CT angiography (CTA) is central to detect infections involving heart valves and implanted cardiovascular devices, also allowing for early detection of septic emboli and metastatic. This article describes the main clinical application of white blood cell SPECT/CT and [¹⁸F]FDG-PET/CT and CTA in IE and infections associated with cardiovascular implantable electronic devices.

Cardiovascular positron emission tomography: established and emerging role in cardiovascular diseases

Cardiac positron emission tomography (PET) imaging has established themselves firmly as excellent and reliable functional imaging modalities in assessment of the spectrum of coronary artery disease. With the explosion of technology advances and the dream of flow quantification now a reality, the value of PET is now well realized. Cardiac PET has proved itself as precise imaging modality that provides functional imaging of the heart in addition to anatomical imaging. It has established itself as one of the best available techniques for evaluation of myocardial viability. Hybrid PET/computed tomography provides simultaneous integration of coronary anatomy and function with myocardial perfusion and metabolism, thereby improving characterization of the dysfunctional area and chronic coronary artery disease. The availability of quantitative myocardial blood flow evaluation with PET provides additional prognostic information and increases diagnostic accuracy in the management of patients with coronary artery disease. Hybrid imaging seems to hold immense potential in optimizing management of cardiovascular diseases and furthering clinical research.

Dysplastic Pulmonary Valve Infective Endocarditis With an Atrial Septal Defect-A Black Swan Event: When Rarity Brings Clarity

ABSTRACT

A case of infective endocarditis of a dysplastic pulmonic valve along with atrial septal defect has been described. Right-sided endocarditis has now increased in frequency because of cardiac invasive procedures and intravenous drug abuse. Although the tricuspid valve usually bears the brunt of right-sided endocarditis, there have now been increasing reports of pulmonary valve infective endocarditis.

The Emerging Role of FDG PET/CT in Diagnosing Endocarditis and Cardiac Device Infection

Infective endocarditis and cardiac implantable electronic device infection (CIEDI) have witnessed an increasing incidence in clinical practice and associated with increasing health care expenditure. Expanding indications of CIED in various cardiovascular conditions have also contributed to the surge of these infections. Early diagnosis of these infections is associated with a favorable prognosis. Given the lack of a single definitive diagnostic method and the limitations of echocardiography, which is considered a central diagnostic imaging modality, additional imaging modalities are required. Recent studies have highlighted the diagnostic utility of FDG PET and CT. In this review article, we discuss the existing limitations of echocardiography, acquisition protocols of PET/CT, and indications of these advanced imaging modalities in infective endocarditis and CIEDI diagnosis.

Temporal trends of mortality in patients with infective endocarditis: a nationwide study

AIMS

Little is known about the mortality for patients with infective endocarditis (IE) on a nationwide scale, and previous studies have been conducted in selected cohorts from tertiary centers. We aimed to investigate temporal trends in mortality using nationwide Danish registries.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We identified patients with first-time IE between 1999-2018, and they were grouped by calendar periods (1999-2003, 2004-2008, 2009-2013, 2014-2018). One-year mortality was estimated using Kaplan-Meier estimates. For calendar periods, odds ratios (ORs) and hazard ratios (HRs) were computed using multivariable adjusted logistic regression and Cox proportional Hazards analyses for in-hospital and one-year mortality, respectively. We identified 8804 patients with IE. Age and proportions of men were: 66.7 (25th-75th percentile: 53.4-76.7) years and 59.9% in 1999-2003 and 72.8 (25th-75th percentile: 63.4-80.3) and 65.8% in 2014-2018. In-hospital mortality was 1999-2003: 24.5%, 2004-2008: 22.8%, 2009-2013: 18.8%, and 2014-2018: 18.3%. Relative to 1999-2003, adjusted likelihoods of in-hospital mortality were: OR = 0.81 (95% CI: 0.69-0.96) in 2004-2008, OR = 0.59 (95% CI: 0.50-0.69) in 2009-2013, and OR = 0.51 (95% CI: 0.43-0.60) in 2014-2018. By calendar periods, crude risks of one-year mortality were: 34.4% (95% CI: 32.0-36.8%), 33.5% (95% CI: 31.5-35.6%), 32.1% (95% CI: 30.2-34.0%), and 33.1% (95% CI: 31.3-34.8%). Relative to 1999-2003, adjusted rates of one-year mortality were: HR = 0.88 (95% CI 0.79-0.99) in 2004-2008, HR = 0.76 (95% CI: 0.68-0.86) in 2009-2013, and HR = 0.72 (95% CI: 0.64-0.81) in 2014-2018.

CONCLUSION

In this nationwide study of patients with first-time IE between 1999-2018, both short- and long-term survival has improved over time when accounting for changes in patient characteristics.

ONE-SENTENCE SUMMARY

When accounting for patient characteristics, both short- and long-term mortality have improved in patients with first-time infective endocarditis.

18F-FDG PET/CT improves diagnostic certainty in native and prosthetic valve Infective Endocarditis over the modified Duke Criteria

BACKGROUND

International guidance recognizes the shortcomings of the modified Duke Criteria (mDC) in diagnosing infective endocarditis (IE) when transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE) is equivocal. 18F-FDG PET/CT (PET) has proven benefit in prosthetic valve endocarditis (PVE), but is restricted to extracardiac manifestations in native disease (NVE). We investigated the incremental benefit of PET over the mDC in NVE.

METHODS

Dual-center retrospective study (2010-2018) of patients undergoing myocardial suppression PET for NVE and PVE. Cases were classified by mDC pre- and post-PET, and evaluated against discharge diagnosis. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis and net reclassification index (NRI) assessed diagnostic performance. Valve standardized uptake value (SUV) was recorded.

RESULTS

69/88 PET studies were evaluated across 668 patients. At discharge, 20/32 had confirmed NVE, 22/37 PVE, and 19/69 patients required surgery. PET accurately re-classified patients from possible, to definite or rejected (NRI: NVE 0.89; PVE 0.90), with significant incremental benefit in both NVE (AUC 0.883 vs 0.750) and PVE (0.877 vs 0.633). Sensitivity and specificity were 75% and 92% in NVE; 87% and 86% in PVE. Duration of antibiotics and C-reactive Protein level did not impact performance. No diagnostic SUV cut-off was identified.

CONCLUSION

PET improves diagnostic certainty when combined with mDC in NVE and PVE.

The role of imaging in infective endocarditis

Infective endocarditis (IE) poses a large diagnostic and therapeutical challenge. An early diagnosis is necessary for a positive outcome. Echocardiography is initial diagnostic method when there is a possibility of IE presence. TTE and TEE are useful in detection, accurate localisation and estimation of vegetation size, and also in detection of paravalvular spreading of infection. In certain situations, there is a need for usage of complementary methods like CCT and nuclear techniques. This article will outline advantages and limitations of certain diagnostic methods in diagnosis of IE.

Infective Endocarditis in the Elderly: Challenges and Strategies

The specific management of infective endocarditis (IE) in elderly patients is not specifically addressed in recent guidelines despite its increasing incidence and high mortality in this population. The term "elderly" corresponds to different ages in the literature, but it is defined by considerable comorbidity and heterogeneity. Cancer incidence, specifically colorectal cancer, is increased in older patients with IE and impacts its outcome. Diagnosis of IE in elderly patients is challenging due to the atypical presentation of the disease and the lower performance of imaging studies. Enterococcal etiology is more frequent than in younger patients. Antibiotic treatment should prioritize diminishing adverse effects and drug interactions while maintaining the best efficacy, as surgical treatment is less commonly performed in this population due to the high surgical risk. The global assessment of elderly patients with IE, with particular attention to frailty and geriatric profiles, should be performed by multidisciplinary teams to improve disease management in this population.

Alternative Nuclear Imaging Tools for Infection Imaging

Purpose of Review

Cardiovascular infections are serious disease associated with high morbidity and mortality. Their diagnosis is challenging, requiring a proper management for a prompt recognition of the clinical manifestations, and a multidisciplinary approach involving cardiologists, cardiothoracic surgeons, infectious diseases specialist, imagers, and microbiologists. Imaging plays a central role in the diagnostic workout, including molecular imaging techniques. In this setting, two different strategies might be used to image infections: the first is based on the use of agents targeting the microorganism responsible for the infection. Alternatively, we can target the components of the pathophysiological changes of the inflammatory process and/or the host response to the infectious pathogen can be considered. Understanding the strength and limitations of each strategy is crucial to select the most appropriate imaging tool.

Recent Findings

Currently, multislice computed tomography (MSCT) and nuclear imaging (¹⁸F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography, and leucocyte scintigraphy) are part of the diagnostic strategies. The main role of nuclear medicine imaging (PET/CT and SPECT/CT) is the confirmation of valve/CIED involvement and/or associated perivalvular infection and the detection of distant septic embolism. Proper patients’ preparation, imaging acquisition, and reconstruction as well as imaging reading are crucial to maximize the diagnostic information.

Summary

In this manuscript, we described the use of molecular imaging techniques, in particular WBC imaging, in patients with infective endocarditis, cardiovascular implantable electronic device infections, and infections of composite aortic graft, underlying the strength and limitations of such approached as compared to the other imaging modalities.

Echocardiography fails to detect an extensive aortic root abscess in a patient with infective endocarditis: a case report

Background

Echocardiography plays a central role in the diagnosis of infective endocarditis (IE). In recent years, additional imaging techniques have begun to challenge the conventional approach. We present a case where the use of transthoracic/transoesophageal echocardiography (TTE/TOE) in suspected IE failed to identify an extensive periannular abscess, later identified by 18F-flurodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography (FDG-PET), requiring urgent intervention.

Case summary

A 69-year-old man with symptomatic Streptococcus sanguinis bacteraemia and a bicuspid aortic valve was found to have new-onset left bundle branch block that progressed to complete heart block. After starting on IV Penicillin G and having a temporary pacemaker inserted, his clinical condition improved. Transthoracic echocardiography and TOE showed no evidence of abscess. However, persistent first-degree atrioventricular block raised clinical suspicion of a possible extended infection. Subsequent FDG-PET revealed focal activity around the aortic root that extended inferiorly into the interatrial septum, consistent with active infection and possible abscess. Composite aortic root replacement with insertion of a mechanical prosthesis was carried out, revealing extensive IE and multiple periannular abscesses.

Discussion

As guidelines grapple with evolving understandings of how best to define the optimal imaging approach for the management of complicated IE, the results of this case clearly show the importance of heightened clinical suspicion and need for prompt operative intervention when faced with patients who present with predisposing conditions and concern for advanced conduction disease. Clinicians and researchers are encouraged to learn from the potential near-miss of an extensive periannular abscess to help guide guideline-development of imaging in complicated IE and prevent adverse outcomes in patients with similar presentations.

Infective endocarditis: Role of molecular techniques in early diagnosis

Infective endocarditis (IE), a heart valve infection primarily caused by bacteria such as streptococci or staphylococci, causes significant morbidity and mortality. Despite the long-term use of broad-spectrum antimicrobials, the infection is often difficult to manage. The latest diagnostic modalities for IE are discussed in this study. Blood culture use in pathogen identification can lead to loss of precious time as well as generation of false negative reports. The first steps in diagnosis are blood cultures and echocardiography, but molecular techniques can be extremely useful and may be used for an accurate and early diagnosis.

Diagnostic value of 18F-FDG PET/CT in infective endocarditis

INTRODUCTION

18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (¹⁸F-FDG-PET/CT) is not routinely recommended for the diagnosis of infective endocarditis (IE) due to the lack of clinical impact.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between January 2016 and January 2020, clinical data from patients with a possible diagnosis of IE were reviewed retrospectively to evaluate the value of ¹⁸F-FDG-PET/CT in the diagnosis of IE. ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT scan was performed as an additional diagnostic tool in possible IE when echocardiography was inconclusive or in patients with definite IE to identify extracardiac complications. Cases were classified according to modified Duke criteria as rejected, definite or possible.

RESULTS

313 patients with suspected IE were included. 72 (23%) patients underwent 18F-FDG PET/CT. ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT resulted in a reclassification of Duke criteria in 29/72 (40%) patients, from "possible" to "definite" (n, 10) and to "rejected" (n, 19). Patients who benefited from a Duke criteria reclassification following ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT were more frequently classified as possible IE at inclusion or had a non-conclusive baseline echocardiography (100% vs 58%; p 0.001) and had more likely a prosthetic metallic valve replacement (59% vs 21%; p 0.001). Abnormal perivalvular uptake was identified in 46 patients (71% prosthetic vs 50% native; p 0.118). ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT identified extracardiac uptake consistent with septic emboli in 14/72 (19%) patients. In addition, extracardiac uptake indicative of an alternative diagnosis was identified in 5 patients (2% prosthetic vs 17% native; p 0.039).

CONCLUSION

The use of ¹⁸F-FDG-PET/CT has shown to be useful in the diagnosis of IE, particularly in prosthetic IE and may provide additional value in the detection of septic emboli and/or the identification of an alternative diagnosis different from IE.

Clinical Profile of Prosthetic Valve Endocarditis due to Candida parapsilosis: An 11-year Retrospective Observational Study from a Quaternary Cardiac Referral Institute in India

Background: Recent changes in the diagnostic criteria and the introduction of newer technologies like prosthetic valve replacement require the need to identify the changing epidemiology of prosthetic valve endocarditis (PVE).

Materials and methods: This is a retrospective, cross-sectional, observational study. Patients diagnosed with Candida parapsilosis definite and possible PVE as per modified Duke’s criteria for a period of 11 years from January 2010 to December 2020 were included for the analysis.

Results: Twelve of the 47 PVE cases (25.5%) were caused by C. parapsilosis. The median age of the patients was 52 years. Males were predominantly affected (58%). Based on the modified Duke’s criteria, eight (67%) were definite infective endocarditis (IE) cases. The single valve was affected in 11 cases (92%) with the mitral valve being the commonest (n = 8, 67%). The type of valve commonly involved was mechanical [n = 10, 83%]. The mean size of the vegetation was 13.15 mm. Most cases (n = 7, 58%) were late-onset PVE. The mean C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and procalcitonin (PCT) levels for C. parapsilosis PVE were 70.2 mg/L, 51.08 mm/hour, and 0.3 ng/mL, respectively. The rates of complications and in-hospital mortality were 75% each. The most common observed complication was embolic events (n = 8, 67%). Statistical significance (p ≤ 0.05) was observed for mean vegetation size, overall complications, embolic events, and mortality for C. parapsilosis PVE when compared with bacterial PVE.

Conclusion:C. parapsilosis was the commonest etiological agent causing PVE. Predominant mitral valve involvement, higher rates of late-onset presentation, complications, and mortality were key differential characteristics observed.

Highlights: The manuscript throws light on the changing epidemiology, clinical, and microbiological profile of PVE due to Candida sp., which are scarcely studied and reported in low- and middle-income countries like India.

How to cite this article: Ponnambath DK, Gopalakrishnan A, Pillai VV, Kaviyil JE, Raja K. Clinical Profile of Prosthetic Valve Endocarditis due to Candida parapsilosis: An 11-year Retrospective Observational Study from a Quaternary Cardiac Referral Institute in India. Indian J Crit Care Med 2021;25(8):860–865.

Diagnostic Challenges in Sepsis

Purpose of Review

Sepsis is a leading cause of death worldwide. Groundbreaking international collaborative efforts have culminated in the widely accepted surviving sepsis guidelines, with iterative improvements in management strategies and definitions providing important advances in care for patients. Key to the diagnosis of sepsis is identification of infection, and whilst the diagnostic criteria for sepsis is now clear, the diagnosis of infection remains a challenge and there is often discordance between clinician assessments for infection.

Recent Findings

We review the utility of common biochemical, microbiological and radiological tools employed by clinicians to diagnose infection and explore the difficulty of making a diagnosis of infection in severe inflammatory states through illustrative case reports. Finally, we discuss some of the novel and emerging approaches in diagnosis of infection and sepsis.

Summary

While prompt diagnosis and treatment of sepsis is essential to improve outcomes in sepsis, there remains no single tool to reliably identify or exclude infection. This contributes to unnecessary antimicrobial use that is harmful to individuals and populations. There is therefore a pressing need for novel solutions. Machine learning approaches using multiple diagnostic and clinical inputs may offer a potential solution but as yet these approaches remain experimental.

Should We Quantify Valvular Calcifications on Cardiac CT in Patients with Infective Endocarditis?

BACKGROUND

Evaluate the impact of valvular calcifications measured on cardiac computed tomography (CCT) in patients with infective endocarditis (IE).

METHODS

Seventy patients with native IE (36 aortic IE, 31 mitral IE, 3 bivalvular IE) were included and explored with CCT between January 2016 and April 2018. Mitral and aortic valvular calcium score (VCS) were measured on unenhanced calcium scoring images, and correlated with clinical, surgical data, and 1-year death rate.

RESULTS

VCS of patients with mitral IE and no peripheral embolism was higher than those with peripheral embolism (868 (25-1725) vs. 6 (0-95), p < 0.05). Patients with high calcified mitral IE (mitral VCS > 100; n = 15) had a lower rate of surgery (40.0% vs.78.9%; p = 0.03) and a higher 1-year-death risk (53.3% vs. 10.5%, p = 0.04; OR = 8.5 (2.75-16.40) than patients with low mitral VCS (n = 19). Patients with aortic IE and high aortic calcifications (aortic VCS > 100; n = 18) present more frequently atypical bacteria on blood cultures (33.3% vs. 4.8%; p = 0.03) than patients with low aortic VCS (n = 21).

CONCLUSION

The amount of valvular calcifications on CT was associated with embolism risk, rate of surgery and 1-year risk of death in patients with mitral IE, and germ's type in aortic IE raising the question of their systematic quantification in native IE.

Association between Volume and Outcomes of Infective Endocarditis Surgery: A Nationwide Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

To determine the relationship between hospital surgical volume and mortality risk and valve repair rate in infective endocarditis (IE) surgery.

METHODS

Using the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD), 3873 patients were identified who underwent surgery between 2000 and 2013. The cumulative hospital volume of valve surgery for IE was calculated, and patients were divided into 4 subgroups according to the quartile. Outcomes were mortality and valve repair rate and the cut point of referral excellence.

RESULTS

The distribution of IE surgery has been shifting to lower volume hospitals over the years. The global disease severity (Charlson's Comorbidity Index score [CCI score]) of patients was greater in the lowest volume hospital than in the highest volume hospital (2.4 vs. 2.0). The crude in-hospital mortality rate was 15.8% and 9.4% for the lowest and highest volume hospitals, respectively, with a significant difference (adjusted odds ratio: 1.86, 95% confidence interval: 1.22-2.85) after adjustment of baseline characteristics including the CCI score. The mitral valve (MV) repair rate increased with the increase in cumulative volume. During a mean follow-up period of 4.4 years, 324 (41.9%) and 254 (30.9%) patients died in the lowest and highest volume subgroups, respectively, and the difference was significant (adjusted hazard ratio: 1.59, 95% CI: 1.21-2.10).

CONCLUSIONS

A higher cumulative volume of IE surgery is associated with a lower risk of mortality and a higher likelihood of successful MV repair. Therefore, interfacility transfer to a high-volume hospital may improve outcomes of IE surgery.

Imaging of Cardiac Infections: A Comprehensive Review and Investigation Flowchart for Diagnostic Workup

Infections of the cardiovascular system may present with nonspecific symptoms, and it is common for patients to undergo multiple investigations to arrive at the diagnosis. Echocardiography is central to the diagnosis of endocarditis and pericarditis. However, cardiac computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging also play an additive role in these diagnoses; in fact, magnetic resonance imaging is central to the diagnosis of myocarditis. Functional imaging (fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography/CT and radiolabeled white blood cell single-photon emission computed tomography/CT) is useful in the diagnosis in prosthesis-related and disseminated infection. This pictorial review will detail the most commonly encountered cardiovascular bacterial and viral infections, including coronavirus disease-2019, in clinical practice and provide an evidence basis for the selection of each imaging modality in the investigation of native tissues and common prostheses.

Usefulness of 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography in the Diagnosis of Infective Endocarditis in Patients With Adult Congenital Heart Disease

BACKGROUND

Infective endocarditis (IE) in patients with adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) remains a diagnostic challenge due to difficulties in detecting endocardial lesions by echocardiography. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) has shown good diagnostic performance in prosthetic valve IE. This study aimed to assess its additional diagnostic value in ACHD-associated IE and to characterize its advantages.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Overall, 22 patients with ACHD and clinical suspicion of IE were retrospectively studied. 18F-FDG PET/CT was performed in addition to conventional assessment based on the modified Duke criteria. The final IE diagnosis was determined by an expert team during a 3-month clinical course, resulting in 18 patients diagnosed with IE. Seven patients (39%) were diagnosed with definite IE only by initial echocardiography. An 18F-FDG PET/CT assessment revealed endocardial involvement in the other 9 patients, resulting in the diagnosis of definite IE in 16 in total (88%). Right-sided endocardial lesions were more common (n=12, 67%) but rarely identified by echocardiography, whereas 18F-FDG PET/CT revealed right-sided lesions in 9 patients. A negative 18F-FDG PET/CT (n=7, 39%) assessment was associated with a native valve IE (71% vs. 0%). In 4 patients who were identified with not-IE, neither echocardiography nor 18F-FDG PET/CT detected any suspicious cardiac involvement.

CONCLUSIONS

In the diagnosis of ACHD-associated IE, characterized by right-sided IE, 18F-FDG PET/CT assessment should be useful.

EACVI recommendations on cardiovascular imaging for the detection of embolic sources: endorsed by the Canadian Society of Echocardiography

Cardioaortic embolism to the brain accounts for approximately 15-30% of ischaemic strokes and is often referred to as 'cardioembolic stroke'. One-quarter of patients have more than one cardiac source of embolism and 15% have significant cerebrovascular atherosclerosis. After a careful work-up, up to 30% of ischaemic strokes remain 'cryptogenic', recently redefined as 'embolic strokes of undetermined source'. The diagnosis of cardioembolic stroke remains difficult because a potential cardiac source of embolism does not establish the stroke mechanism. The role of cardiac imaging-transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE), cardiac computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-in the diagnosis of potential cardiac sources of embolism, and for therapeutic guidance, is reviewed in these recommendations. Contrast TTE/TOE is highly accurate for detecting left atrial appendage thrombosis in patients with atrial fibrillation, valvular and prosthesis vegetations and thrombosis, aortic arch atheroma, patent foramen ovale, atrial septal defect, and intracardiac tumours. Both CT and MRI are highly accurate for detecting cavity thrombosis, intracardiac tumours, and valvular prosthesis thrombosis. Thus, CT and cardiac magnetic resonance should be considered in addition to TTE and TOE in the detection of a cardiac source of embolism. We propose a diagnostic algorithm where vascular imaging and contrast TTE/TOE are considered the first-line tool in the search for a cardiac source of embolism. CT and MRI are considered as alternative and complementary tools, and their indications are described on a case-by-case approach.

Follow the Lead: The Challenges of Cardiogenic Shock in Device-Related Infective Endocarditis

We present the challenging case of a young man with congenital heart disease who survived severe device-related infective endocarditis and new pulmonary hypertension. He required prolonged mechanical circulatory support and had multiple significant complications. His case posed a management dilemma that was successfully resolved by effective multidisciplinary, tertiary center care. (Level of Difficulty: Beginner.).

Infection of cardiac prosthetic valves and implantable electronic devices: early diagnosis and treatment

There has been a recent rise in the use of implantable cardiac devices, mostly valves but also electronic ones, such as pacemakers, and implantable defibrillators. The increasing use of these devices had as a consequence the raised incidence of endocarditis, an infrequent but morbid complication of these procedures. Thus, early diagnosis of the implantable cardiac devices related infection and endocarditis became pivotal for appropriate management. For diagnostic purposes, the modified Duke criteria are widely used, which are based on clinical and imaging findings, in addition to serological analyses and blood cultures. 18F-fluoro-2-deoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) is a recently employed method in order to improve the early diagnosis of endocarditis as well as infection of the implantable device. It is likely, that combining the modified Duke criteria with the FDG PET/CT, will increase the sensitivity and specificity of diagnosis and will guide the treating physician to an early and appropriate management.

Expert opinion paper on cardiac imaging after ischemic stroke

This expert opinion paper on cardiac imaging after acute ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) includes a statement of the "Heart and Brain" consortium of the German Cardiac Society and the German Stroke Society. The Stroke Unit-Commission of the German Stroke Society and the German Atrial Fibrillation NETwork (AFNET) endorsed this paper. Cardiac imaging is a key component of etiological work-up after stroke. Enhanced echocardiographic tools, constantly improving cardiac computer tomography (CT) as well as cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offer comprehensive non- or less-invasive cardiac evaluation at the expense of increased costs and/or radiation exposure. Certain imaging findings usually lead to a change in medical secondary stroke prevention or may influence medical treatment. However, there is no proof from a randomized controlled trial (RCT) that the choice of the imaging method influences the prognosis of stroke patients. Summarizing present knowledge, the German Heart and Brain consortium proposes an interdisciplinary, staged standard diagnostic scheme for the detection of risk factors of cardio-embolic stroke. This expert opinion paper aims to give practical advice to physicians who are involved in stroke care. In line with the nature of an expert opinion paper, labeling of classes of recommendations is not provided, since many statements are based on expert opinion, reported case series, and clinical experience.

Infective Endocarditis: A Focus on Oral Microbiota

Infective endocarditis (IE) is an inflammatory disease usually caused by bacteria entering the bloodstream and settling in the heart lining valves or blood vessels. Despite modern antimicrobial and surgical treatments, IE continues to cause substantial morbidity and mortality. Thus, primary prevention and enhanced diagnosis remain the most important strategies to fight this disease. In this regard, it is worth noting that for over 50 years, oral microbiota has been considered one of the significant risk factors for IE. Indeed, among the disparate recommendations from the American heart association and the European Society of Cardiology, there are good oral hygiene and prophylaxis for high-risk patients undergoing dental procedures. Thus, significant interest has grown in the role of oral microbiota and it continues to be a subject of research interest, especially if we consider that antimicrobial treatments can generate drug-resistant mutant bacteria, becoming a severe social problem. This review will describe the current knowledge about the relationship between oral microbiota, dental procedures, and IE. Further, it will discuss current methods used to prevent IE cases that originate from oral pathogens and how these should be focused on improving oral hygiene, which remains the significant persuasible way to prevent bacteremia and systemic disorders.

Infective endocarditis: A contemporary update

Infective endocarditis (IE) remains a rare condition but one with high associated morbidity and mortality. With an ageing population and increasing use of implantable cardiac devices and heart valves, the epidemiology of IE has changed. Early clinical suspicion and a rapid diagnosis are essential to enable the correct treatment pathways to be accessed and to reduce complication and mortality rates. In the current review, we detail the latest guidelines for the evaluation and management of patients with endocarditis and its prevention.

Optimal Timing of Surgery for Patients with Active Infective Endocarditis

Infective endocarditis (IE) is a rare but serious condition with a dismal prognosis. One of the keys to improving outcomes is the prompt identification of high-risk patients who have intracardiac and extracardiac (systemic and neurologic) complications. However, as cardiac and extracardiac complications indicating surgery add to the surgical risk for active IE, controversies surround the optimal indication and timing for surgery, especially in patients presenting neurologic complications. This article reviews the necessary evaluation for patients with suspected IE and proposes a state-of-the-art patient flow chart for evaluation of suspected IE.

ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Infective Endocarditis

Infective endocarditis can involve a normal, abnormal, or prosthetic cardiac valve. The diagnosis is typically made clinically with persistently positive blood cultures, characteristic signs and symptoms, and echocardiographic evidence of valvular vegetations or valvular complications such as abscess, dehiscence, or new regurgitation. Imaging plays an important role in the initial diagnosis of infective endocarditis, identifying complications, prognostication, and informing the next steps in therapy. This document outlines the initial imaging appropriateness of a patient with suspected infective endocarditis and for additional imaging in a patient with known or suspected infective endocarditis. The American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria are evidence-based guidelines for specific clinical conditions that are reviewed annually by a multidisciplinary expert panel. The guideline development and revision include an extensive analysis of current medical literature from peer reviewed journals and the application of well-established methodologies (RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation or GRADE) to rate the appropriateness of imaging and treatment procedures for specific clinical scenarios. In those instances where evidence is lacking or equivocal, expert opinion may supplement the available evidence to recommend imaging or treatment.