Arq Bras Cardiol: Imagem cardiovasc 2020; 33(3): 1-8
Use of Echocardiography in Infectious Endocarditis Associated with Implantable Cardiac Devices
DOI: 10.5935/2318-8219.20200030
Abstract
In recent decades, the increase in indications for cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) has been accompanied by an increased number of complications related to their use, including infectious endocarditis (IE). IE has high morbidity and mortality rates despite advances in diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. The case studies on this topic have significant limitations in terms of diagnostic criteria and methods, which affect decision-making on CIED removal and increase the risk of complications and death. Notwithstanding, echocardiography is critical for diagnosing CIED-associated IE and related potential complications. The limitations and challenges in its diagnosis demand the need for further studies on the topic. The objective of this study was to elucidate the epidemiology, microbiology, risk factors, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of IE associated with CIEDs to demonstrate the importance of imaging techniques in diagnosis of IE, especially echocardiography.
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