Pulominc Valvular Stenosis

  My son was diagnosed with pulmonic valvular stenosis at 6 weeks of age.  His cardiologist and pediatricians have all warned me of the threat of endocarditis in the event of bacteria collecting around the valve. My question is this:  Do I have to more vigilant of infections such as strep throat than I normally would or is it only bacteria introduced into the bloodstream that poses this hazard?

[CCF Cardio MD - MTR]

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Dear Jean, thank you for your question.  Only bacteria that enter the bloodstream cause endocarditis.  Strep throat should not put your son at risk for endocarditis.  There are forms of strep bacteria that live in the mouth that can cause endocarditis when dental procedures are done without antibiotic prophylaxis.   Thus, your son should receive appropriate antibiotics before dental procedures and other invasive (intravascular) procedures.  Otherwise, he should be treated in the same fashion as other children for oropharyngeal infections.  
I hope you find this information useful.  Information provided in the heart forum is for general purposes only.  Only your physician can provide specific diagnoses and therapies. Please feel free to write back with additional questions.  Good luck!
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