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Infective Endocarditis (IE) is an uncommon but severe infection affecting the endocardial surface of the heart, most often involving the valves. It occurs when bacteria or, less commonly, fungi enter the bloodstream and adhere to damaged cardiac tissue. Staphylococcus aureus, streptococci, and enterococci are the leading causative organisms worldwide. Risk factors include prosthetic heart valves, congenital heart disease, intravenous drug use, poor dental health, and weakened immunity.

The disease can present acutely with fever, chills, and rapid deterioration, or sub-acutely with fatigue, weight loss, and night sweats. Classic signs such as Osler’s nodes, Janeway lesions, and splinter hemorrhages are rare today but remain diagnostic clues. Complications include valvular destruction, heart failure, systemic embolization, and stroke.

Diagnosis relies on blood cultures and echocardiography, with advanced imaging sometimes required. Treatment involves prolonged intravenous antibiotics, guided by microbiological findings, and in severe cases, surgical valve replacement or repair. Preventive measures include maintaining good oral hygiene and, for high-risk patients, receiving antibiotic prophylaxis before dental or invasive procedures.

Despite medical advances, IE remains associated with high morbidity and mortality, underscoring the importance of early recognition, multidisciplinary care, and preventive strategies.