How does infective endocarditis occur and progress?
Endocarditis is uncommon. In the UK it occurs in about 20 in a million people each year. It can occur in anybody, but the risk of developing it is increased in people who have: • Heart valve problems or an artificial heart valve. Heart valves that are already damaged or abnormal are more likely to become infected. • Had surgery to a heart valve. • Certain congenital heart defects. • A heart condition called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. • Had a previous episode of infective endocarditis. • Been injecting street drugs such as heroin with dirty or contaminated needles. • A poor immune system. For example, people with AIDS.
