Related Experiment Videos
[Perimyocarditis caused by Yersinia enterocolitica serotype 0:3]
B Zöllner1, I Sobottka, G von der Lippe
1Institut für Medizinische Mikrobiologie und Immunologie, Universitäts-Krankenhauses, Hamburg.
Deutsche Medizinische Wochenschrift (1946)
|November 20, 1992
Summary
This case study highlights Yersinia enterocolitica infection as a cause of chest pain and myocarditis in a young adult. Prompt antibiotic treatment with ciprofloxacin led to rapid symptom resolution and recovery.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Myocarditis and pericarditis can present with severe chest pain and ECG changes mimicking acute myocardial infarction.
- Gastrointestinal infections, particularly those caused by Yersinia species, are increasingly recognized as potential triggers for cardiac inflammation.
Observation:
- A 19-year-old patient presented with refractory nocturnal thoracic pain, elevated cardiac enzymes (SGOT, CK-MB, LDH), and diffuse ECG abnormalities suggestive of peri-myocarditis.
- Physical examination revealed only a sweaty skin, with no other significant findings.
Findings:
- The patient's symptoms and cardiac abnormalities resolved following a 14-day course of ciprofloxacin.
- Diagnostic investigations revealed elevated Widal test titres against Yersinia enterocolitica serotype O:3, confirmed by stool isolation and immunoblot.
- The patient experienced a full recovery and was discharged symptom-free after 34 days.
Implications:
- Yersinia enterocolitica infection should be considered in the differential diagnosis of unexplained chest pain and peri-myocarditis, especially following a diarrheal prodrome.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic therapy are crucial for favorable outcomes in infectious-induced cardiac complications.
- This case underscores the importance of a comprehensive diagnostic approach, including infectious workup, for patients presenting with cardiac symptoms.