Infectious Endocarditis Clinic

Cardiac Care for People with Infectious Endocarditis (IE)

Helping patients with IE protect their heart health.

Infective endocarditis is an infection inside the heart, including the heart valves. Some risk factors for adults include previous heart surgeries or valve replacements, abnormal heart valves, and substance use disorder.

The symptoms of acute IE usually begin with fever, chills, fast heart rate, fatigue, persistent cough, or swelling in the feet, legs, or abdomen. Treatment usually consists of IV antibiotics. The choice of antibiotic and the length of treatment is based on the type of infection causing the endocarditis. Surgery to repair or replace damaged valves is also sometimes needed.

The Infectious Endocarditis Clinic provides patients with comprehensive services for the prevention and treatment of IE, and existing cardiovascular illnesses, including coronary artery disease, stroke and heart failure. Cardiologist Katherine Kentoffio, MD, and the clinic staff work closely with patients to reduce risk. They also collaborate with each person’s care team — including primary care providers, infectious disease specialists, and specialty pharmacists — tailoring treatments and medications to improve outcomes.

Locations

The Infectious Endocarditis Clinic provides services at two locations.

Contact Us

Patients: Call 617-667-8800 to schedule an appointment.

Physicians: Consider referring patients with endocarditis who need care before and after surgery, or for ongoing issues. Select “Infectious Endocarditis Clinic” in the BIDMC online medical record (OMR) to refer a patient, or email us.