Myocarditis

This is the name given to inflammation of the heart muscle.

It is usually secondary to viral or bacterial infections. Other possible causes may be drug intoxication, chemical intoxication and rheumatic fever.

It may present with fever, chest pain, fatigue and shortness of breath. 

Diagnosis is made by history and physical examination. It is necessary to complement it with some tests (electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, etc). If infarction cannot be ruled out, it will be necessary to perform a catheterization.

In mild cases, resolution is usually spontaneous and without sequelae. In the event of serious complications, admission to an intensive care unit may be necessary for the treatment of arrhythmias, heart failure and other symptoms.