Question

Which patients need prophylaxis for infective endocarditis?

1) Patients with prosthetic heart valves
2) Patients with a history of infective endocarditis
3) Patients with certain congenital heart defects
4) All of the above

Answer 1

Prophylaxis for infective endocarditis is necessary for patients with prosthetic heart valves, those with a history of the disease, and individuals with certain congenital heart defects.

Step-by-step explanation:

Patients who require prophylaxis for infective endocarditis include: 1) those with prosthetic heart valves, 2) individuals with a history of infective endocarditis, and 3) those with certain congenital heart defects. Each of these conditions increases the risk of endocarditis because they can either impair the natural defense mechanisms of the heart or present surfaces that are more susceptible to bacterial colonization. Diagnosis of infective endocarditis involves a combination of blood cultures, echocardiogram, and observation of clinical symptoms, and if confirmed, treatment typically entails administration of high doses of specific antibiotics tailored to the microbial cause.