Most common organism for causing infective endocarditis in native valve –
**Core Concept**
Infective endocarditis is a bacterial infection of the heart valves, typically affecting individuals with pre-existing heart conditions. Native valve endocarditis often results from bacteremia, where bacteria in the bloodstream adhere to and colonize the heart valves.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Streptococci, particularly viridans group streptococci, are the most common organisms causing infective endocarditis in native valve endocarditis. These bacteria are part of the normal oral flora and can enter the bloodstream through dental procedures or other mucosal breaches. They have a particular affinity for damaged heart valves and can form biofilms, leading to valve destruction and subsequent complications.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Staphylococcus aureus is a common cause of infective endocarditis, particularly in intravenous drug users and those with prosthetic valves. However, it is less commonly associated with native valve endocarditis compared to streptococci.
**Option B:** Enterococci can cause infective endocarditis, but they are less common than streptococci in native valve endocarditis.
**Option C:** Candida is a fungal organism that can cause infective endocarditis, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. However, it is not the most common cause of native valve endocarditis.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Viridans group streptococci are often associated with dental procedures, emphasizing the importance of proper dental hygiene and avoidance of dental procedures in high-risk patients.
**Correct Answer:** A. Streptococci.