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Löeffler endomyocarditis: a clinical presentation as right ventricular tumor
C De Cock1, J Lemaitre, F E Deuvaert
1Department of Cardiac Surgery, Hopital Universitaire des Enfants, Free University of Brussels, Belgium.
The Journal of Heart Valve Disease
|December 31, 1998
Summary
A child with Toxocara canis infection developed cardiac issues, including right ventricle mass and pulmonary embolism, due to hypereosinophilia. Treatment involves addressing the infection and using corticosteroids.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
Background:
- Hypereosinophilia can lead to multi-organ damage, particularly in cases of Löeffler endomyocarditis.
- Toxocara canis infection is a potential cause of hypereosinophilia and subsequent cardiac complications.
Observation:
- A four-year-old girl presented with a right ventricular apical mass, pulmonary embolism, and significant hypereosinophilia.
- Diagnostic investigations confirmed Toxocara canis infection as the underlying cause.
Findings:
- Cardiac involvement included endomyocardial fibrosis at the right ventricular apex, mural thrombi, and tricuspid regurgitation.
- The proposed mechanism involves cytotoxic peroxidases released by eosinophils, leading to organ damage.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis and treatment of Toxocara canis infection are crucial to prevent severe cardiac manifestations.
- Management strategies include etiological treatment, corticosteroids, and potentially surgery in advanced cases.