According to the modified Duke criteria for infective endocarditis, which of the following is a major criterion?
- A Fever above 38 degrees Celsius
- B Vascular phenomena such as Janeway lesions
- C Positive blood culture with a typical organism ✓
- D Elevated ESR or CRP
Correct answer: C. Positive blood culture with a typical organism
Explanation
The modified Duke criteria include two major criteria: positive blood culture with a typical organism (viridans streptococci, Streptococcus bovis, HACEK group, or community-acquired Staphylococcus aureus or enterococci) and evidence of endocardial involvement on echocardiography. Fever, vascular phenomena, and immunologic phenomena are minor criteria. Elevated inflammatory markers are also minor criteria. Positive blood culture with a typical organism is essential for diagnosis.
Reference: Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 21st ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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