Myopericarditis associated with varicella zoster virus infection

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Sterile Pericarditis in Aachener Minipigs As a Model for Atrial Myopathy and Atrial Fibrillation
08:56

Sterile Pericarditis in Aachener Minipigs As a Model for Atrial Myopathy and Atrial Fibrillation

Published on: September 24, 2021

Kai-Liang Kao1, Shu-Jen Yeh, Chia-Chun Chen

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, Pan-Chiao, Taipei County 220, Taiwan, ROC.

Pediatric Cardiology
|January 21, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Varicella zoster virus can cause acute myopericarditis in children, presenting with chest pain and shock. Prompt antiviral treatment with acyclovir led to full recovery of heart function.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Cardiology

Background:

  • Acute myopericarditis is a significant cause of acquired heart disease in children globally.
  • Varicella zoster virus (VZV) is a known, though infrequent, cause of myopericarditis.
  • Widespread varicella vaccination has led to a decline in VZV-associated cases.

Observation:

  • A pediatric patient presented with chest pain, tachycardia, and hypotension, indicative of acute myopericarditis.
  • Characteristic skin vesicles appeared two days after initial symptoms, confirming VZV infection.
  • Diagnosis was supported by positive VZV serum IgM antibody tests.

Findings:

  • Intravenous acyclovir effectively managed the VZV-induced myopericarditis.
  • Clinical symptoms and electrocardiographic abnormalities resolved following antiviral therapy.
  • The patient experienced complete recovery of myocardial function.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the importance of considering VZV as a cause of pediatric myopericarditis, even in vaccinated populations.
  • Early diagnosis and prompt antiviral treatment are crucial for favorable outcomes.
  • Highlighting the efficacy of acyclovir in managing VZV-related cardiac complications in children.

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