ASPECTS RELATED TO FUNGAL ENDOCARDITIS

Abstract

Introduction: Endocarditis is an infection of the endocardium, the inner layer of the heart that lines the valves and heart chambers. It is a low frequency disease, considered rare, and has a challenging diagnosis. Methodology: The aim of this study was to analyze the most current and relevant information on fungal endocarditis in the medical literature. FOR this, a methodological and systematic approach was employed to the articles found in a relevant and reliable database, the Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde, known as the BVS. Results: A total of 07 articles were selected to make up this review. Conclusion: It can be observed with the present study that fungal endocarditis is a rare disease, however, with a high mortality rate. Diagnosis is based on imaging and blood culture, with Candida sp. being the most commonly isolated causative agent. Immunosuppressed patients, as well as those with some kind of comorbidity, infection and a history of heart surgery are more likely to develop the disease. Treatment is based on antifungal drugs, however, drugs used alone are not effective and an emergency surgical approach is almost always necessary. Even so, even if clinical-surgical treatment is instituted, mortality reaches 80% of the cases in the studies analyzed, demonstrating the seriousness of the condition.