Abstract
The development of single, daily dose antibiotic regimens and the availability of computerized ambulatory infusion pumps have made it possible for most patients with infectious endocarditis (IE) to complete their treatment in an outpatient setting. This review summarizes the current literature on the classification, diagnosis, clinical and laboratory manifestations, and inpatient and outpatient management of IE. An algorithmic approach to the diagnosis and management of IE is proposed. Most patients with IE who are clinically stable and do not require a surgical procedure can be managed using outpatient parenteral antibiotic therapy. Results from several small studies suggest that outpatient parenteral antibiotic therapy for IE is safe, efficacious and economical.