Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 30, 2025

Live Imaging and Quantification of Viral Infection in K18 hACE2 Transgenic Mice Using Reporter-Expressing Recombinant SARS-CoV-2
Published on: November 5, 2021
Myocarditis and related complications of SARS-CoV-2 infection
1MBBS, FRACP, FCSANZ, Clinical Director, Coronary Care Unit, Gold Coast University Hospital, Southport, Qld; Associate Professor, Griffith University School of Medicine, Southport, Qld; Honorary Adjunct Associate Professor, Faculty of Health science and Medicine, Bond University, Robina, Qld.
Background:
Myocarditis and pericarditis are associated with a wide range of presentations and have received renewed interest because of the association with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Some of these complications have also been reported with the mRNA vaccines used for preventing the infection, which has caused widespread anxiety and uncertainty in the community.
Objective:
The aim of this article is to summarise an approach to the clinical problem of myocarditis and treatment/management of patients with myocarditis in the community. This article also discusses SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccines.
Discussion:
Myocarditis and pericarditis need to be considered as a differential, especially in all adolescents or young adults presenting with acute chest pain, shortness of breath or palpitations. Other serious causes of chest pain - such as acute myocardial infarction, pulmonary embolism, aortic dissection and pneumothorax - also need to be excluded. Initial electrocardiography, troponin and C-reactive protein tests are recommended, and cardiology advice should be sought for all suspected cases.
Insights
Myocarditis and pericarditis, inflammation of the heart muscle and outer lining, are linked to SARS-CoV-2 infection and mRNA vaccines. Early recognition and cardiology consultation are vital for managing these conditions in young individuals.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Vaccinology
Background:
- Myocarditis and pericarditis present diversely and have gained attention due to their association with SARS-CoV-2 infection.
- These cardiac conditions have also been reported following mRNA vaccination, leading to public concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the clinical approach to myocarditis and pericarditis.
- To outline the management of patients with myocarditis in a community setting.
- To discuss the roles of SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination in these conditions.
Main Methods:
- Clinical review and synthesis of current literature.
- Discussion of diagnostic considerations for chest pain in adolescents and young adults.
- Recommendations for initial diagnostic tests and specialist consultation.
Main Results:
- Myocarditis and pericarditis should be considered in young patients with acute chest pain, dyspnea, or palpitations.
- Differential diagnoses for chest pain, including myocardial infarction and pulmonary embolism, must be excluded.
- Initial investigations include electrocardiography, troponin, and C-reactive protein levels.
Conclusions:
- Prompt consideration of myocarditis and pericarditis is crucial in the differential diagnosis of acute chest pain in young populations.
- Exclusion of other life-threatening causes of chest pain is essential.
- Standardized diagnostic workup and cardiology consultation are recommended for suspected cases.
Related Concept Videos
Myocarditis I: Introduction
Myocarditis III: Medical Management
Myocarditis II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
Myocarditis IV: Nursing Management
Rheumatic Heart Disease I: Introduction
Pericarditis I: Introduction

