Infectious endocarditis is an infection of the lining of the
heart chambers and heart valves that is caused by bacteria,
fungi, or other infectious substances. Endocarditis - infectious
Causes, incidence, and risk factors Endocarditis is usually a
result of a blood infection. Bacteria or other infectious
substance can enter the bloodstream during certain medical
procedures, including dental procedures, and travel to the
heart, where it can settle on damaged heart valves. The bacteria
can grow and may form infected clots that break off and travel
to the brain, lungs, kidneys, or spleen. Most people who develop
infectious endocarditis have underlying heart disease or valve
problems. However, an organism commonly found in the mouth,
Streptococcus viridans, is responsible for about 50% of all
bacterial endocarditis cases. This is why dental procedures
increase your chances for developing this condition. Such
procedures are especially risky for children with congenital
heart conditions. As a result, it is common p