Current course of infectious endocarditis

: Etiological factors, clinical manifestations, laboratory evidence and outcomes of infectious endocarditis (IE) were studied in 59 patients treated in 1981-1996. Cases of the secondary form predominated. Previously described stages (infectious-toxic, immuno-inflammatory, dystrophic) were not observed. Systemic immunocomplex pathology with development of myocarditis, nephritis, arthritis, serositis occurred frequently. Causes of late diagnosis are analysed, recommendations on management of patients with risk factors of infectious endocarditis, preventive measures are provided.