Cureus. 2026 Aug 6;18(8):e114058. doi: 10.7759/cureus.114058. eCollection 2026 Aug.
ABSTRACT
Staphylococcus aureus endocarditis is a severe and life-threatening infection that continues to pose a significant challenge in cardiovascular medicine. Despite advances in healthcare, its management remains complex due to its aggressive nature and potential complications. Although infective endocarditis (IE) predominantly affects the left side of the heart, right-sided IE can also occur, often linked to intravenous drug use, medical device implantation, and vascular access for dialysis. Notably, many patients with native valve S. aureus endocarditis have no prior structural heart disease, suggesting that inflammation may play a critical role in its development. Early diagnosis is crucial and relies on comprehensive clinical evaluation, blood cultures, and echocardiography. Empiric antibiotic therapy should provide broad coverage against common pathogens, with adjustments based on culture results. In certain cases, surgical intervention is required, particularly when complications such as large vegetations, persistent infection, or severe valve dysfunction arise. A multidisciplinary approach involving infectious disease specialists, cardiologists, and cardiothoracic surgeons is essential for optimizing patient outcomes. Timely intervention, individualized treatment strategies, and coordinated care can significantly reduce the risk of complications and improve prognosis.
PMID:42701699 | PMC:PMC13546125 | DOI:10.7759/cureus.114058