[Ampulla cardiomyopathy induced by meningitis: two case reports]

Michifumi Kyuma1, Ryosuke Noda, Makoto Hagiwara

  • 1Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Muroran City General Hospital, Hokkaido. murohosp022@kujiran.jp

Journal of Cardiology
|December 2, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Meningitis can cause apical ballooning cardiomyopathy, a rare condition. This requires intensive care due to potential respiratory arrest, highlighting the importance of prompt diagnosis and management.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Neurology
  • Intensive Care Medicine

Background:

  • Meningitis is an infection of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
  • Apical ballooning cardiomyopathy, also known as stress-induced cardiomyopathy, is typically associated with cerebrovascular disease.
  • The occurrence of apical ballooning cardiomyopathy secondary to meningitis is considered rare.

Observation:

  • Two patients with meningitis presented with symptoms suggestive of acute coronary syndrome, including chest pain and ST elevation.
  • Coronary angiography revealed apical ballooning without significant coronary stenosis in one patient.
  • Echocardiography demonstrated apical ballooning and basal hyperkinesis in the other patient, with normal creatine kinase levels.

Findings:

  • The findings suggest a causal link between meningitis and the development of apical ballooning cardiomyopathy.
  • This presentation is unusual, as apical ballooning cardiomyopathy is more commonly linked to cerebrovascular events.
  • The absence of elevated cardiac enzymes further supports a non-ischemic etiology.

Implications:

  • Meningitis should be considered as a potential trigger for apical ballooning cardiomyopathy.
  • Patients with meningitis experiencing cardiac symptoms require thorough cardiovascular evaluation.
  • Early recognition and intensive care are crucial due to the risk of respiratory compromise in these patients.

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