EXPERIMENTAL ENDOCARDITIS - PATHOLOGY OF HUMAN INFECTIVE ENDOCARDITIS

Experimental reproduction of human endocarditis in animal models has b een based on the induction of structural lesions in valve endocardium using different methods. The primary lesion caused in this way is the so called non-bacterial thrombotic endocarditis. Its colonization is t hen induced by inoculation of microorganisms in the bloodstream. Freed man's modified method has been the most widespread model of this type. It has mainly been performed in rabbits with inoculation of Staphyloc occus aureus or alpha-hemolitic Streptococcus. Experimental models of endocarditis have contributed to our knowledge of the pathogenic mecha nisms, causative agents and predisposing factors of endocarditis. They have also allowed us to develop appropriate diagnostic, therapeutic a nd prophylactic measures for its management.