Plasmodium vivax induced myocarditis: a rare case report

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Cardiology
• Parasitology

Background:

• Malaria remains a significant global health challenge, particularly in tropical regions.
• Plasmodium species are responsible for malaria, with Plasmodium vivax being a common cause.
• While malaria's effects on the spleen and liver are well-documented, cardiac involvement is less common.

Observation:

• A 20-year-old male presented with symptoms suggestive of cardiac compromise.
• Diagnostic investigations confirmed Plasmodium vivax infection.
• The patient exhibited signs and symptoms consistent with myocarditis.

Findings:

• This case demonstrates a rare instance of Plasmodium vivax directly causing myocarditis.
• Literature review reveals limited documented cases of P. vivax-induced cardiac inflammation.
• The findings underscore the potential for P. vivax to affect multiple organ systems.

Implications:

• Physicians should consider malaria, including Plasmodium vivax, in the differential diagnosis of myocarditis, especially in endemic areas.
• Early recognition and treatment of P. vivax malaria may prevent severe complications like myocarditis.
• Further research is warranted to understand the pathogenesis of Plasmodium vivax-related cardiac dysfunction.