Device-related Endocarditis - What Should be Considered?

Device-associated endocarditis is a major complication after implantation of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIED). Clinical features vary and can but do not always have to include the generator pocket. Symptoms may also be non-specific with fever, chills and/or night sweats. An early establishment of diagnosis is important to minimize the risk of severe and life-threatening complications. Therefore, different diagnostic approaches such as microbiological testing as well as multimodal imaging techniques are available and should be considered. Early treatment is of utmost importance and includes e.g. antibiotics as well as the explantation of the CIED system.