QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
This is correct. Transoesophageal echocardiography is vital in the diagnosis of infective endocarditis to visualise vegetations on the valves in the heart. Multiple blood cultures are also essential.
10028411
a
Transoesophageal echocardiogram
QuestionChoice
A routine CT- CAP is not indicated in the diagnosis of infective endocarditis.
10028414
d
CT chest, abdomen and pelvis
QuestionChoice
Transthoracic echocardigrams are less specific and less sensitive than transoesophageal echocardigrams for the diagnosis of infective endocarditis.
10028412
b
Transthoracic echocardiogram
QuestionChoice
This may be useful in patients with prosthetic heart valves but is not first line.
10028413
c
SPECT-CT
QuestionChoice
CT Aortogram is generally used to assess for aneurysms or dissections within the aorta.
10028415
e
CT Aortogram
QuestionComment
The British Infection Association outline transthoracic as first-line, with transoesophageal being reserved for negative transthoracic cases. https://www.britishinfection.org/application/files/2714/1640/8773/Endocarditis_final_BSAC_2012.pdf
62250
User
subscriber
Tony
Concept
Chapter
2693
3710
Infective Endocarditis
Topic
134
Cardiology
18080
Transoesophageal echocardiography is crucial for diagnosing infective endocarditis by visualising vegetations on cardiac valves.
A 34 year old man comes to the emergency department due to fevers and rigors. He is of no fixed abode at present and uses intravenous drugs. On fundoscopic examination, roth spots are noted.

Which of the following is most likely to aid diagnosis?
a