Diagnosis
Physical Examination
Your doctor may suspect endocarditis based on:
- Your medical history
- Symptoms
- Listening for a heart murmur with a stethoscope
- Blood test to look for bacteria in the bloodstream
Diagnostic Tests
Echocardiogram
Your doctor will also order an echocardiogram to show the condition of your heart valve as well as any growths or abscesses. This test uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images that show the size, shape and motion of the heart.
Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE)
A transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) involves passing an ultrasound probe through your mouth into your esophagus near the heart. It makes clearer pictures than does a conventional echocardiogram.
Chest X-Ray
Simple x-ray test that uses radiation to take pictures of structures inside the body.
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
This test records the heart's activity by measuring electrical currents through the heart muscle. It may show signs of heart strain or enlargement.
Cardiac Catheterization
An x-ray of the heart's circulation done after the injection of a contrast dye.