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Hypersensitivity myocarditis caused by an allergic reaction to cefaclor
M Beghetti1, G J Wilson, D Bohn
1Department of Pathology, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto School of Medicine, Ontario, Canada.
The Journal of Pediatrics
|February 21, 1998
Summary
Hypersensitivity myocarditis can cause acute heart failure in adolescents following viral illness and cefaclor treatment. Prompt drug withdrawal and corticosteroid therapy led to rapid recovery.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Immunology
- Pathology
Background:
- Adolescent acute heart failure is a critical condition requiring prompt diagnosis.
- Viral infections and certain medications are potential triggers for cardiac complications.
- Cefaclor, a common antibiotic, has been rarely associated with adverse cardiac events.
Observation:
- A teenage girl presented with acute heart failure six days after a viral illness and otitis media.
- The patient had been treated with cefaclor for her otitis media.
- Clinical presentation suggested a possible drug-induced cardiac issue.
Findings:
- Endomyocardial biopsy confirmed active myocarditis characterized by eosinophilic infiltration.
- The histological findings were typical of hypersensitivity myocarditis.
- Cefaclor was identified as the likely causative agent.
Implications:
- This case highlights cefaclor-induced hypersensitivity myocarditis as a cause of acute heart failure in adolescents.
- Early recognition and cessation of the offending drug are crucial for patient recovery.
- Treatment with corticosteroids and immunoglobulin can reverse the cardiac dysfunction effectively.