What is the relationship between the initiation of antimicrobial therapy and the incidence of stroke in infective endocarditis?
The ICE Prospective Cohort Study (ICE-PCS) found that initiation of antimicrobial therapy was associated with a reduced risk of stroke in patients with infective endocarditis. Specifically, the study found that patients who received antimicrobial therapy had a lower incidence of stroke compared to those who did not receive antimicrobial therapy, with the risk reduction ranging from 28% to 33%. Additionally, the study found that the risk of embolism and death were reduced by early initiation of antimicrobial therapy, as determined by echocardiography. Other studies have also found that anticoagulant therapy can be beneficial in reducing the risk of stroke in patients with infective endocarditis, although the risk of bleeding complications may be increased.  