Final answer:
Subacute bacterial endocarditis typically involves a gradual damage to heart valves over months, commonly caused by viridans streptococci, whereas acute bacterial endocarditis progresses fast and is life-threatening. High doses of intravenous antibiotics are used to treat both, but the presence of protected bacterial vegetations is characteristic of the subacute form.
Step-by-step explanation:
Comparison of Acute and Subacute Bacterial Endocarditis
Subacute bacterial endocarditis is a form of heart infection where the damage to the heart valves occurs gradually, usually over a period of months. The most common bug causing subacute endocarditis are viridans streptococci, although other bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis can also be involved. These infections often arise from bacteria entering the bloodstream through activities such as dental procedures, or other instances where normal barrier defenses are breached.
In contrast, acute bacterial endocarditis progresses rapidly and can be life-threatening within days. It is urgently treated with high doses of intravenous antibiotics.
The distinction between these two forms is crucial for a proper diagnosis and treatment. The presence of blood clots in the heart, where the bacteria form vegetations protected from phagocytes, characterizes subacute cases. Symptoms may include fever and require careful management including antimicrobial susceptibility testing for effective treatment.