Myocarditis

Myocarditis is an inflammatory disease of the myocardium that is often a consequence of infection, toxin exposure, or autoimmune disorder. The presentation varies from mild self-limited disease to sudden cardiac deathSudden cardiac death. The diagnosis of myocarditis cannot be confirmed with one specific test and requires a detailed history, physical examination and targeted cardiac testing such as electrocardiogram and echocardiogram. The role of cardiac magnetic resonanceCardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) as a diagnostic aid is becoming clearer in pediatricsPediatric. ImmunosuppressionImmunosuppression is recommended only in suspected giant cell myocarditis with presence of frequent ectopy or varying degree of heart block, or with proven autoimmune myocarditis. In most cases there is complete functional recovery, but about 30% of patients will progress to chronic, dilated cardiomyopathyCardiomyopathy. Guideline-directed heart failureHeart failure therapy with reverse remodeling agents should be initiated if ventricular dysfunction persists.