Acute myocarditis

Acute Myocarditis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the myocardium, the muscular tissue of the heart. It is often caused by viral infections, but can also be the result of bacterial, fungal, or parasitic infections, as well as certain medications or immune system disorders.

Causes

The most common cause of acute myocarditis is a viral infection. Viruses that can lead to myocarditis include coxsackievirus, adenovirus, and parvovirus B19. Other causes can include bacterial infections such as streptococcus, fungal infections like aspergillus, and parasitic infections such as trypanosoma cruzi, which causes Chagas disease. Certain medications, including some chemotherapy drugs and antibiotics, can also cause acute myocarditis, as can immune system disorders such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.

Symptoms

Symptoms of acute myocarditis can vary widely, from mild or no symptoms to severe heart failure. Common symptoms include chest pain, fatigue, shortness of breath, and rapid or irregular heartbeats. In severe cases, acute myocarditis can lead to life-threatening conditions such as cardiogenic shock or sudden cardiac death.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of acute myocarditis typically involves a combination of patient history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. These tests can include blood tests, electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, and cardiac MRI. In some cases, a endomyocardial biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment for acute myocarditis depends on the cause and severity of the condition. It often involves managing symptoms and treating the underlying cause of the inflammation. This can include medications to reduce inflammation and treat infections, as well as therapies to manage heart failure symptoms. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required, and devices such as a ventricular assist device (VAD) or heart transplant may be considered.

Prognosis

The prognosis for acute myocarditis varies depending on the cause and severity of the condition. Some people recover completely with appropriate treatment, while others may experience long-term heart damage or complications.

See also

• Chronic myocarditis
• Infective endocarditis
• Pericarditis