Myocarditis in enteric fever

1. Myocarditis in the course of enteric fever is a common occurrence. In a series of 100 bacteriologically or serologically proved enteric fever, we found 7 cases with clinical evidence of myocarditis and 46 cases with ECG evidence of myocarditis. 2. Commonest ECG abnormality was Q-Tc prolongation (29%) followed by ST-T changes (20%) bundle branch block (7%) first degree A-V Block (%) and arrhythmia (2%). 3. All the ECG changes were transient except bundle branch block which persisted in 3 cases. 4. Those with other systemic complications had a higher chance of having myocarditis (P < 0.01). 5. Autopsy evidence of myocarditis was found in 2 cases. With our results, it is obvious that ECT must be recorded in all cases of enteric fever. Those with ECG changes must be observed carefully for clinical evidence of myocarditis. All these patients must have absolute bed rest. Judicious use of corticosteroids is indicated in selected cases of selected cases of severe myocarditis. Diuretics are indicated in cases with evidence of congestive cardiac failure.