Novel insights on acute myocarditis in pediatric patients

Acute myocarditis (AM) is an inflammatory affliction of the heart muscle characterized by recent onset with a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations that globally affect millions of individuals, notably children and young adults. The absence of distinct patterns of onset or predictable progression poses a significant threat to survival, potentially leading to advanced heart failure and malignant arrhythmias. Myocardial fibrosis, a hallmark of myocardial remodeling, is increasingly recognized as a contributor to adverse outcomes in acute myocarditis cases. Advances in molecular and immunological techniques have highlighted the intricate interplay between viral infections, dysregulated immune responses, and genetic susceptibility. Currently, there is no clear consensus for diagnosis or ongoing follow-up in pediatric patients. The conventional diagnostic tool, endomyocardial biopsy (EMB), considered the gold standard, has been complemented by the effectiveness of cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMRI) techniques. Given the procedural complexities and associated complications, there is a pressing need to explore non-invasive alternatives. In this context, biomarkers emerge as promising contenders by evaluating both the inflammatory processes and cardiac remodeling, providing valuable observations into disease severity, progression, and treatment response. Therapeutic strategies in these cases, focusing on the specific pathways or immune components associated with the etiologies, have exhibited promise for better outcomes. Acute myocarditis in children remains a multifaceted clinical challenge, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of its pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management. This review aims to delve into novel insights surrounding the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of acute myocarditis in pediatric patients.