Myocarditis - pediatric - Treatment

Treatment:

There is no cure for myocarditis, although the heart muscle inflammation usually goes away on its own in time.

The goal of treatment is to support heart function and treat the underlying cause of the myocarditis. Most children with this condition are admitted to a hospital. Activity can strain the heart and therefore is often limited.

Treatment may include:

• Antibiotics to fight infection
• Anti-inflammatory medicines called steroids to control inflammation
• Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), a medicine made of substances that the body produces to fight infection, to control the inflammatory process
• Medicines called diuretics to remove excess water from the body
• Medicines to treat heart failure and abnormal heart rhythms

Expectations (prognosis):

How well the child does depends on the cause and his or her overall health. With appropriate treatment, most children recover completely. However, some may have permanent heart disease. Newborns have the highest risk for serious disease and complications (including death) due to myocarditis. In rare cases, an urgent heart transplant is necessary.

Complications:

• Enlargement of the heart that leads to reduced heart function (dilated cardiomyopathy)
• Heart failure
• Heart rhythm problems

Calling your health care provider:

Make an appointment with your child's pediatrician if signs or symptoms of this condition occur.