Molecular Diagnosis of Bacterial Infective Endocarditis in Tabriz, Azerbaijan

Introduction: The aim of this study was to analyze a PCR based approach for detection of infective endocarditis in Azerbaijan.Methods: Ten aortic valves, 8 mitral valves and 2 tricuspid valves, were analyzed for the presence of bacterial infective endocarditis using Gram staining, culture and PCR methods.Results: Of the 20 valves, 5 and 4 cases were positive by Gram staining and culture assay, respectively. Bacterial DNA was positive in 12 of the 20 valves (60%) by broad-spectrum PCR. Direct sequencing for species identification was possible in 10 cases.Conclusion: PCR and direct molecular identification of the etiological agents responsible for infective endocarditis may enable specific treatment to begin at an earlier phase of the disease.