Changing Patterns of Bacterial Endocarditis in Norway

Abstract

An analysis is made of the patterns of bacterial endocarditis in a Norwegian autopsy material from the period 1939–67. This material is compared with that of Harbitz from 1894–97. The main findings include a decreased frequency, an increased average age, a greater variety of aetiologic agents, a lesser importance of rheumatism as predisposing factor, and a very high incidence of embolic phenomena.