Fatal Left Ventricular Free Wall Rupture Complicating Acute Myopericarditis.

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Pathology

Background:

• Myopericarditis, inflammation of the heart muscle and pericardium, can present with diverse clinical manifestations.
• Pericardial effusion and cardiac tamponade are potential complications of inflammatory cardiac conditions.

Observation:

• A 59-year-old male presented with a 2-week history of progressive symptoms suggestive of myopericarditis.
• Worsening pericardial effusion was noted, leading to the development of cardiac tamponade.

Findings:

• Pericardiocentesis confirmed hemopericardium, indicating bleeding into the pericardial sac.
• Multidetector computed tomography angiography revealed a critical finding: left ventricular free wall rupture.
• Autopsy confirmed the rupture and associated hemopericardium.

Implications:

• Left ventricular free wall rupture is a rare but catastrophic complication of myopericarditis.
• This case underscores the importance of prompt diagnosis and management of severe myopericarditis to prevent fatal outcomes.
• Further research into the mechanisms and early detection of such ruptures is warranted.