Brugada Phenocopy in a Child With Parvovirus B19 Myocarditis

Sodium channelopathies predispose to life-threatening arrhythmias. Brugada phenocopies (BrPs) are nongenetic conditions that mimic Brugada syndrome and may have a reversible cause.

A 16-month-old child presented with a 12-day ventricular tachycardia storm and a spontaneous type 1 Brugada electrocardiogram pattern during sinus rhythm. The patient initially presented with no fever and normal ventricular function on admission that deteriorated severely within 6 days. Blood viral polymerase chain reaction was positive for parvovirus B19, and endomyocardial biopsy confirmed myocarditis. Targeted treatment led to full recovery.

This is the first reported case to our knowledge of BrP caused by viral myocarditis. It highlights the diagnostic challenges and the importance of correct diagnosis and treatment.

In pediatric refractory ventricular tachycardia, even with a Brugada pattern (possible BrP), myocarditis should be considered, as early diagnosis and treatment can be lifesaving. Blood viral polymerase chain reaction is a highly sensitive diagnostic tool for diagnosis of viral myocarditis in children.