Unique features of infective endocarditis in childhood

The observed frequency of endocarditis in children during recent years necessitates that primary care physicians, as well as specialists, consider this diagnosis in children. Survivors of surgery for complex congenital heart disease who have implanted vascular grafts, patches, or prosthetic cardiac valves are at increased risk for IE. However, children with normal hearts may also develop IE. Unique aspects of IE in pediatric populations are discussed, and tailored approaches to diagnosis, laboratory evaluation, detection of complications, therapy, and prevention of IE are presented.