Bacterial endocarditis of the aortic valve

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The heart with detail of a normal aortic valve and an infected aortic valve

In endocarditis, bacteria that have entered the bloodstream settle on the inside of the heart, usually on the heart valves.

Current as of: September 7, 2022

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Rakesh K. Pai MD, FACC - Cardiology, Electrophysiology
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine
Robert A. Kloner MD, PhD - Cardiology

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