Myocarditis—Child
by
Marjorie Montemayor-Quellenberg, MA DefinitionMyocarditis is a rare inflammation of the heart’s muscle. Myocarditis can occur without symptoms and remain undiagnosed.
CausesIn most children, the condition is often caused by a viral infection. Other potential causes include:
Sometimes the cause cannot be found. Risk FactorsThere are no known risk factors for developing myocarditis. SymptomsSome children may have no symptoms. Those who do may have a variety symptoms that can appear slowly or come on suddenly. Children older than 2 years old may have fewer symptoms than babies. Symptoms may include:
DiagnosisYou will be asked about your child’s symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. There is no specific test for myocarditis. The diagnosis can usually be made based on the history, physical exam, and test results. Your child's bodily fluids and tissues may be tested. This can be done with:
Images may be taken of your child's bodily structures. This can be done with: The electrical activity of your child's heart may be measured. This can be done with an electrocardiogram (ECG). TreatmentYour child will need bed rest. Physical activity should be avoided. Myocarditis may be relieved by treating the underlying cause if possible:
Medication may also be given to support the heart function and remove extra fluid from the lungs or other body tissues. PreventionTo help prevent viral or bacterial infections, practice good hygiene. For example, have your child wash his or her hands regularly. RESOURCES:American Heart Association http://www.heart.org National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov CANADIAN RESOURCES:Canadian Cardiovascular Society http://www.ccs.ca Health Canada https://www.canada.ca References:Myocarditis. Seattle Children's Hospital website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed December 27, 2017. Myocarditis.Children's Hospital of Philadelphia website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed December 27, 2017.
Myocarditis. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at:
http://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T114167/Myocarditis
. Updated September 5, 2017. Accessed December 27, 2017.
Last reviewed November 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Kari Kassir, MD Last Updated: 12/20/2014 |
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