Myocarditis

Inflammation of the heart muscle.

It is often secondary to viral or bacterial infections. Other possible causes include drug intoxication, chemical intoxication and rheumatic fever.

It may present with fever, chest pain, tiredness and difficulty breathing.

The diagnosis is made by history and physical examination. Additional tests (electrocardiogram, ecocardiogram, etc.) must be carried out to obtain more precise results. If an infarction cannot be ruled out, catheterisation must be carried out.

Mild cases usually resolve spontaneously without sequelae. Serious complications may require admission to intensive care for treatment of arrhythmias, heart failure and other symptoms.