Contemporary management of infective endocarditis in pregnancy

INTRODUCTION: Infective endocarditis (IE) during pregnancy is a rare condition that is associated with a high level of morbidity and mortality. The epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis have changed significantly in the last two decades. The declining incidence of rheumatic heart disease, improved life expectancy with congenital heart disease, advances in cardiac surgery and cardiac devices, rise in resistant microorganisms, complications of the opioid epidemic, and increasing maternal age are some of the many factors contributing to these changes. AREAS COVERED: This article explores existing literature on the topic including case reports, case series, registry data, and clinical guidelines. The focus of this article is the evolving epidemiology, predisposing factors and preventative measures, clinical presentation, investigation, management, and potential complications of IE in pregnancy. EXPERT OPINION: Robust prospective data on the management of IE in pregnancy is lacking, and obtaining these data will be very challenging. It is imperative that international registries are used to provide data on best clinical practices and inform future clinical guidelines. Multimodal imaging should be incorporated in the investigation of complicated cases. A multidisciplinary approach to the management of this rare and life-threatening condition is essential to ensure the best outcomes for both the mother and the fetus.