What is the cause of inflammation in endocarditis?

Inflammation in endocarditis is primarily caused by a bacterial infection. This condition, which involves the inflammation of the inner lining of the heart chambers and valves, typically arises when bacteria enter the bloodstream and attach to the heart's endocardium. This can happen through various means, such as dental procedures, injection drug use, or infections elsewhere in the body.

The presence of bacteria triggers the immune response, leading to inflammation and the formation of vegetations—masses composed of clotted blood and bacteria adhering to heart valves or other damaged areas of the heart. These vegetations can disrupt normal heart function and may lead to serious complications, such as valve dysfunction or septicemia. While viral and fungal infections, as well as autoimmune responses, can cause other types of heart disease and inflammation, the specific diagnosis of endocarditis is most closely associated with bacterial pathogens.