Issue 5/2025
Lekova, R., Vassileva, Z.
Pediatric cardiology clinic, National Heart Hospital – Sofia
Infective endocarditis (IE) is a rare disease in childhood, but is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. It affects most frequently patients with congenital heart defects (CHD), but can also occur in children with structurally normal hearts with underlying risk factors – prematurity, chronic diseases, invasive procedures. High-risk patients (unrepaired CHD, post cardiac surgery using prosthetic material, previous IE) are subject to mandatory prevention, which includes antibiotic prophylaxis, good oral hygiene, regular check-ups, avoidance of unnecessary venous and invasive manipulations.
Key words: infective endocarditis, congenital heart defects, prevention
Address for correspondence:
Dr. R. Lekova
Pediatric Cardiology Clinic, National Cardiology
Hospital – Sofia,
65, Konyovitsa Str.
1309, Sofia