CASESTUDY-Acute Bacterial Endocarditis

1. 서론

Acute bacterial endocarditis (ABE) is a life-threatening infection characterized by the colonization and destruction of heart valves or endocardial surfaces by pathogenic bacteria. This condition can escalate quickly, leading to severe systemic consequences. The pathogenesis of ABE is typically associated with pre-existing heart abnormalities, such as congenital heart defects, prosthetic heart valves, or previous episodes of endocarditis. However, it can also occur in otherwise healthy individuals, particularly following invasive procedures where bacteria can enter the bloodstream. The most common culprits behind ABE include Staphylococcus aureus, particularly methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Streptococcus pneumoniae, and enterococci, although various other organisms may be implicated depending on the underlying risk factors and hospital settings. The rapid onset of symptoms distinguishes ABE from its sub-acute counterpart, infective endocarditis, with pat…(생략)