Myocarditis
Myocarditis is inflammation of the heart muscle.
Causes[edit | edit source]
Myocarditis can be caused by a virus, certain [[drugs, or radiation therapy.
Infectious myocarditis[edit | edit source]
Myocarditis is most commonly caused by an infection such as influenza (flu) virus, coxsackievirus, parovirus, cytomegalovirus, adenovirus, and others that reaches the heart.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
- Chest pain that may resemble a heart attack
- Fatigue or listlessness
- Fever and other signs of infection
- Joint pain or swelling
- Leg swelling
- Pale, cool hands and feet
- Rapid breathing
- Rapid heart rate
- Fainting, often related to irregular heart rhythms
- Low urine output
Work up[edit | edit source]
Myocarditis can be hard to diagnose because the signs and symptoms often mimic those of other heart and lung diseases, or a bad case of the flu.
Physical exam There may be signs of infection, including fever and rashes.
Imaging studies
- A chest x-ray can show enlargement (swelling) of the heart.
- Electrocardiogram may also be done to help make the diagnosis.
- Heart biopsy is the most accurate way to confirm the diagnosis, but it is not always needed
- Other tests that may be needed include:
- Blood cultures to check for infection
- Blood tests to look for antibodies against viruses or the heart muscle itself
- Blood tests to check liver and kidney function
- Complete blood count
- Special tests to check for the presence of viruses in the blood (viral PCR)
Treatment[edit | edit source]
- Treatment is aimed at the cause of the problem, and may involve:
- Antibiotics to fight bacterial infection
- Steroids to reduce swelling
- Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG)
- Diuretics to remove excess water from the body
- Low-salt diet
- Reduced activity
- Rarely, a heart transplant may be needed.
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