How Do You Spell MALIGNANT ENDOCARDITIS?

1. Malignant endocarditis, also known as infective endocarditis, is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition characterized by the inflammation and infection of the lining (endocardium) and valves of the heart. It is caused by the invasion and multiplication of bacteria, fungi, or other microorganisms in the bloodstream that reach the heart.

   The term "malignant" in this context refers to the highly destructive nature of the infection, which can cause severe damage to the heart structures and surrounding tissues if left untreated. The condition is considered malignant due to its ability to spread rapidly and provoke serious complications.

   Symptoms of malignant endocarditis can vary but often include fever, fatigue, muscle and joint pain, weight loss, night sweats, shortness of breath, and a new or changed heart murmur. The infection can also lead to the formation of small blood clots that can travel to different body parts, causing stroke, kidney damage, or other organ dysfunction.

   Diagnosis usually involves a combination of physical examination, blood tests, echocardiography, and sometimes additional imaging or microbiological studies. Treatment typically involves a combination of intravenous antibiotics tailored to the identified infectious organism, as well as supportive therapies. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or replace damaged heart valves or to drain abscesses.

   Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial in malignant endocarditis to prevent complications and improve outcomes. With appropriate management, the prognosis can be favorable, although the condition still carries significant morbidity and mortality risks.

2. A form of e., usually secondary to suppurative inflammation elsewhere, accompanied by ulceration or vegetations on the valves.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for MALIGNANT ENDOCARDITIS

The word "malignant endocarditis" is a medical term that consists of two main components: "malignant" and "endocarditis".

1. Malignant:

The term "malignant" comes from the Latin word "malignus", which means "evil" or "harmful". In medical terminology, "malignant" refers to conditions that are severe, destructive, and have the potential to be life-threatening.

2. Endocarditis:

"Endocarditis" is derived from two Greek words: "endo", meaning "inside", and "kardia", meaning "heart". In medical terminology, "endocarditis" refers to the inflammation of the endocardium, which is the inner lining of the heart chambers and valves. It is typically caused by an infection, either bacterial or fungal.