Diagnosis, Evaluation, and Treatment of Myocarditis in Children
Adam Putschoegl1, Scott Auerbach2
1Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital & Medical Center/University of Nebraska Medical Center, 8200 Dodge Street, Omaha, NE 68114, USA.
Insights
Diagnosing pediatric myocarditis involves various tests and treatments. This condition, often viral, requires careful management using immune therapies for optimal outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Myocarditis in children presents diagnostic challenges.
- Viral infections commonly trigger pediatric myocarditis, involving immune responses.
- Outcomes range from recovery to disease progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline diagnostic approaches for pediatric myocarditis.
- To discuss current treatment strategies for pediatric myocarditis.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing multiple diagnostic modalities for diagnosis.
- Employing laboratory tests: inflammatory markers, cardiac troponin, natriuretic peptides.
- Noninvasive testing: electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, cardiac MRI.
Main Results:
- Diagnosis requires a combination of laboratory and noninvasive tests.
- Treatment approaches include immune modulators, intravenous immunoglobulin, and corticosteroids.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric myocarditis diagnosis is complex, necessitating diverse testing.
- Treatment strategies are evolving and often involve immunosuppressive therapies.
Abstract:
Myocarditis in the pediatric population can be a challenging diagnosis to make and often requires utilization of multiple diagnostic modalities. The cause is often due to a viral infection with activation of the innate and acquired immune response with either recovery or disease progression. Laboratory testing often includes inflammatory markers, cardiac troponin levels, and natriuretic peptides. Noninvasive testing should include electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, and possibly an MRI. Treatment of myocarditis remains controversial with most providers using immune modulators with intravenous immunoglobulin and corticosteroids.
Related Concept Videos
Myocarditis II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
Myocarditis III: Medical Management
Myocarditis IV: Nursing Management
Myocarditis I: Introduction
Rheumatic Heart Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Endocarditis III: Medical Management

