Fulminant myocarditis presenting with wide complex tachycardia.
Fulminant myocarditis is an uncommon diagnosis characterized by cardiac failure preceded by symptoms of a viral illness. Presentation can frequently mimic acute myocardial infarction. The electrocardiographic changes are frequently nonspecific, but include ST segment elevation and T wave changes, as well as conduction abnormalities. We report the case of a patient with fulminant myocarditis that presented with sinus rhythm, a conduction system abnormality, and severe ST segment elevation mimicking ventricular tachycardia. Myocarditis should be considered in young persons with unexplained heart failure and similar electrocardiographic abnormalities.
Stankewicz
Mark A
MA
Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Emory University Hospital, Atlanta, GA, USA.
Clements
Stephen D
SD
D003951:Diagnostic Errors; D004562:Electrocardiography; D017809:Fatal Outcome; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009205:Myocarditis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology; D017180:Tachycardia, Ventricular / Q000175:diagnosis*