What is "Endocarditis"?

Endocarditis is an infection of the heart valves and parts of the inside lining of the heart muscle (known as the "endocardium"). This is an uncommon, but not rare, infection. It is often very serious. The infection may begin at the time of a dental or medical procedure in someone who has a predisposing abnormality of their heart. It may also occur in someone who has had no previous problem with their heart, and who has not had any other procedure which is associated with a risk of endocarditis.