Rare but severe bacterial infection of the heart valves
Aetiology
Gram-positive bacteria represent the majority of organisms responsible for pediatric IE - includes viridans group streptococci, staphylococci and enteroccoci
Can also be caused by gram-negatives and fungi
Clinical presentation
Most cases of pediatric endocarditis present subacutely - low-grade fever, malaise, myalgias, arthralgias, and headaches
New or changing heart murmur may be auscultated
Management
Obtain culture, then start empirical antibiotics, transition to specific antibiotics based on culture results
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