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Myocarditis and pericarditis in children

Yamini Durani1, Katie Giordano, Brett W Goudie

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Thomas Jefferson University, 1025 Walnut Street, Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA. ydurani@nemours.org

Pediatric Clinics of North America
|November 30, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Myocarditis and pericarditis are rare causes of chest pain in children. This review covers their diagnosis, treatment, and relationship with dilated cardiomyopathy, aiding in distinguishing them from noncardiac causes.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Cardiovascular Pathology

Background:

  • Chest pain is a common pediatric complaint.
  • Myocarditis and pericarditis are rare but critical causes of pediatric chest pain.
  • Distinguishing these conditions from noncardiac chest pain is crucial for timely intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the diagnostic criteria, clinical course, causes, and treatment of pediatric myocarditis.
  • To highlight the association between myocarditis and dilated cardiomyopathy.
  • To outline the identification and management of pericarditis with pericardial effusion.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of myocarditis and pericarditis in pediatric populations.
  • Analysis of diagnostic features and clinical presentations.
  • Synthesis of current treatment guidelines and therapeutic approaches.

Main Results:

  • Myocarditis diagnosis requires careful evaluation of clinical features and diagnostic criteria.
  • Supportive therapy is key for managing myocarditis-associated pump dysfunction.
  • Prompt recognition and treatment of pericarditis with effusion can be life-saving.

Conclusions:

  • Clinicians must be aware of the key features distinguishing myocarditis and pericarditis from other causes of chest pain.
  • Accurate diagnosis is essential for appropriate management and improved outcomes in pediatric patients.
  • Understanding the link between myocarditis and dilated cardiomyopathy informs long-term patient care.

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