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Right ventricular aneurysms complicating encephalomyocarditis virus myocarditis in mice

Insights

Viral myocarditis can infrequently cause right ventricular aneurysms in mice. This study suggests a potential link between viral infections and conditions like right ventricular dysplasia.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Cardiology
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Encephalomyocarditis virus (EMCV) is a known cause of myocarditis.
  • The long-term sequelae of viral myocarditis, particularly on right ventricular structure, are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the potential for encephalomyocarditis virus infection to induce chronic cardiac abnormalities.
  • To determine if viral myocarditis can lead to the development of right ventricular aneurysms.

Main Methods:

  • BALB/c, C3H/He, and DBA/2 mice were inoculated with the M variant of EMCV.
  • Mice were monitored for up to 8 months post-infection.
  • Cardiac tissues were examined for pathological changes, focusing on the right ventricle.

Main Results:

  • Right ventricular aneurysms were observed in 1.1% of infected mice (7 out of 647).
  • These aneurysms developed between 8 and 10 months after viral inoculation.
  • Histological analysis revealed transmural destruction of myocardial fibers and fibrosis in the chronic stage.

Conclusions:

  • Viral myocarditis, induced by EMCV, can infrequently result in right ventricular aneurysms.
  • These findings suggest a possible pathogenetic role for viral infections in conditions such as right ventricular dysplasia and Uhl's anomaly.

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