Diagnosis, Evaluation, and Treatment of Myocarditis in Children

Pediatr Clin North Am. 2020 Oct;67(5):855-874. doi: 10.1016/j.pcl.2020.06.013. Epub 2020 Aug 10.

Abstract

Myocarditis in the pediatric population can be a challenging diagnosis to make and often requires utilization of multiple diagnostic modalities. The cause is often due to a viral infection with activation of the innate and acquired immune response with either recovery or disease progression. Laboratory testing often includes inflammatory markers, cardiac troponin levels, and natriuretic peptides. Noninvasive testing should include electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, and possibly an MRI. Treatment of myocarditis remains controversial with most providers using immune modulators with intravenous immunoglobulin and corticosteroids.

Keywords: Diagnosis; Etiology; Myocarditis; Pediatrics; Treatment.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Disease Management*
  • Disease Progression
  • Global Health
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Myocarditis / diagnosis*
  • Myocarditis / epidemiology
  • Myocarditis / therapy