Staphylococci sp. have become the primary pathogens implicated in infective endocarditis, especially within high-income nations. Coupled with the increasing burden of healthcare with aging populations and the protracted course the infections may take, these infections contribute to a significant challenge for healthcare.
A systematic review was conducted using relevant search criteria from PubMed, Ovid’s version of MEDLINE, and EMBASE, and data were tabulated from randomized controlled trials (RCT), observational cohort studies, meta-analysis, and basic research articles. The review was registered with the OSF register of systematic reviews and followed the PRISMA reporting guidelines.
35 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final systematic review. The role of Staphylococcus aureus and its interaction with the protective shield and host protection functions is identified and highlighted in several studies. The interaction between infective endocarditis pathogens, vascular endothelium, and blood constituents is also explored giving rise to the potential use of antiplatelets as preventative and/or curative agents.
Several factors allow Staphylococcus aureus infections to proliferate within the host with numerous promoting and perpetuating agents. The complex interaction with the host's innate immunity also potentiates its virulence. Ameliorating these molecular pathways may serve as a therapeutic avenue for the prevention and treatment of these infections in the near future.
Keywords: Infective Endocarditis, Staphylococcus Aureus Infection, Staphylococcus Aureus Immunity, Staphylococcus Aureus Cytotoxin, Biofilm resistance.
