Diagnosis and Treatment of Fulminant Myocarditis

Highlights of a scientific statement from the American Heart Association

While uncommon, fulminant myocarditis (FM) is a malignant condition requiring rapid recognition and treatment. The American Heart Association has published a scientific statement, endorsed by the Heart Failure Association of America and the Myocarditis Foundation, focusing on diagnosis and treatment of FM. Key points include:

FM is defined as sudden, severe myocardial inflammation resulting in cardiogenic shock, characterized histologically by myocyte necrosis and edema.
In addition to shock, most patients present with dyspnea and either tachyarrhythmias (ventricular tachyarrhythmia or atrial fibrillation) or bradyarrhythmias (heart block).
Echocardiographic findings may mimic ST-segment−elevation myocardial infarction; concomitant pericarditi…

Reviewing Author

Frederick A. Masoudi, MD, MSPH, FACC, FAHA

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardBristol Myers Squibb; CPC Clinical Research

Grant/Research SupportNational Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Editorial BoardsUpToDate; American College of Cardiology Self-Assessment Program (SAP)

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican College of Cardiology (Chair, Innovations Committee)