endokardiala

Endokardiala refers to the inner lining of the heart chambers and valves. This thin layer of cells, known as the endocardium, is continuous with the endothelium lining the blood vessels. Its primary function is to provide a smooth surface that facilitates efficient blood flow and prevents clot formation. The endocardium is composed of several layers, including the endothelium, a subendothelial connective tissue layer, and in the deeper layers of the heart, a layer of cardiac muscle fibers.

Inflammation of the endocardium is called endocarditis. This condition can be caused by infections, most commonly bacterial, but also viral or fungal. The infection can lead to the formation of vegetations, which are collections of microorganisms, platelets, and fibrin on the heart valves. These vegetations can damage the valves, leading to regurgitation or stenosis, and can also break off and travel to other parts of the body, causing embolisms. Risk factors for endocarditis include pre-existing heart valve disease, congenital heart defects, prosthetic heart valves, and intravenous drug use. Symptoms can include fever, chills, fatigue, and new or changing heart murmurs. Diagnosis typically involves blood cultures and echocardiography. Treatment usually involves long courses of antibiotics, and in some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or replace damaged valves.