Which of the Following Statements is Incorrect Regarding Subacute Endocarditis

Question

Which of the following statements is incorrect regarding subacute endocarditis?
A) Bacteria colonize previously damaged heart tissue resulting in bioﬁlm growth.
B) It is caused by autoantibodies that inappropriately target heart and valve tissue.
C) It can be caused by oral bacteria that are introduced to the blood by dental procedures.
D) It occurs exclusively in patients that have prior heart damage.

Accepted Answer

Subacute endocarditis is primarily caused by bacteria colonizing previously damaged heart tissue, not by autoantibodies targeting heart and valve tissue. Autoantibodies are more related to autoimmune conditions rather than infectious processes like subacute endocarditis.