Heart Problems /

Bacterial endocarditis: Antibiotic prophylaxis (prevention)

01 In Brief

Bacterial Endocarditis is an infection of the lining of the heart.Although he had occurred in anybody infants children or adults with heart disease are at much greater risk. Certain procedures for example the dental and other medical procedures can allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream and cause infection particularly in persons with congenital heart disease where they may have a roughened area on the heart lining. Guidelines have been developed for the prevention of bacterial endocarditis and antibiotics are given to those who are considered at high risk. You should consult your paediatrician or paediatric cardiologist he would advise you if antibiotics are necessary before any procedures. This is known as antibiotic prophylaxis.

02 I Want To Know More

  • Detailed fact sheet from the Children's Hospital Boston

 Bacterial endocarditis

03 Clinicians Tools and Resources

  • Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne: cardiology department

 Endocarditis in children with heart defects: Antibiotic guidelines

The information published here has been reviewed by Flourish Paediatrics and represents the available published literature at the time of review.
The information is not intended to take the place of medical advice.
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Last updated: 06/02/2011