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Quantitative Visualization of Leukocyte Infiltrate in a Murine Model of Fulminant Myocarditis by Light Sheet Microscopy
Published on: May 31, 2017
Fulminant dengue myocarditis masquerading as acute myocardial infarction
Chi-Hang Lee1, Clarence Teo, Adrian F Low
1The Heart Institute, National University Hospital Singapore, Singapore. Leechihang@nuh.com.sg
Abstract:
Dengue fever is manifested by a sudden onset of fever (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fever), with severe headache, myalgias (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Myalgia), arthralgias (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arthralgia) and characteristic bright red petechia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Petechia). The exact incidence and pathophysiological mechanism of dengue myocarditis remain obscure, but most of these cases are self-limiting. Fatal dengue myocarditis is a very rare complication of dengue fever. The non-specific symptoms and signs of dengue myocarditis make early diagnosis difficult. A 25-year-old Indian male, suffered from fulminant dengue myocarditis, presented to a our hospital with symptoms and electrocardiographic features mimicking acute myocardial infarction. Unfortunately, the patient succumbed before the dengue serology results were available.
Insights
Dengue myocarditis is a rare complication of dengue fever, often presenting with non-specific symptoms that mimic heart attack. Early diagnosis is challenging, and fatal cases, though rare, can occur.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
Background:
- Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral illness with diverse clinical presentations.
- Dengue myocarditis, a cardiac complication, is infrequently reported, with obscure incidence and pathophysiology.
- Most dengue myocarditis cases are self-limiting, but fatal outcomes are possible.
Observation:
- A young male presented with symptoms and ECG findings suggestive of acute myocardial infarction.
- The patient's presentation was attributed to fulminant dengue myocarditis.
- Diagnosis was complicated by the non-specific nature of symptoms and delayed serology results.
Findings:
- Fulminant dengue myocarditis can mimic acute myocardial infarction.
- Delayed diagnosis due to non-specific symptoms contributed to a fatal outcome.
- The case highlights the potential severity of dengue myocarditis.
Implications:
- Increased awareness of dengue myocarditis is crucial for early diagnosis and management.
- Further research into the pathophysiology and diagnostic markers of dengue myocarditis is warranted.
- This case underscores the importance of considering dengue infection in endemic areas, even with cardiac symptoms.
Related Concept Videos
Myocarditis II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
Myocarditis I: Introduction
Acute Coronary Syndrome II: Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations
Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Myocarditis III: Medical Management
Acute Coronary Syndrome I: Introduction
