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Summary
Infectious mononucleosis can rarely cause fatal myocarditis, leading to ventricular fibrillation. This case highlights the critical need for prompt diagnosis and management of Epstein-Barr virus-related cardiac complications.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pathology
Background:
- Infectious mononucleosis, typically caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), is a common viral illness.
- Myocarditis, inflammation of the heart muscle, is an uncommon but potentially severe complication of infectious mononucleosis.
Observation:
- A 14-year-old female presented with pharyngitis and splenomegaly, indicative of infectious mononucleosis.
- She rapidly developed refractory ventricular fibrillation, a life-threatening cardiac arrhythmia.
Findings:
- Diagnosis of infectious mononucleosis was confirmed by a positive heterophil antibody test and high EBV titers.
- Autopsy revealed extensive histiocytic and lymphocytic infiltration of the myocardium, confirming myocarditis.
Implications:
- This case underscores the rare but lethal potential of EBV-induced myocarditis.
- Highlights the importance of considering cardiac involvement in severe infectious mononucleosis presentations.