Campylobacter infections of the pericardium and myocardium

Abstract

Members of the genus Campylobacter are notorious for their ability to cause gastroenteritis. However, increasing numbers of case reports now suggest that they may have a wider pathogenic repertoire. Pericarditis and myocarditis are increasingly being recognised as sequelae of Campylobacter infection. Although rare, these presentations are important, as misdiagnosis may result in inappropriate thrombolysis or angioplasty, with potential accompanying complications. Extraintestinal Campylobacter infections, and the resulting pathogenesis, remain an important challenge for the 21st century, particularly as immunocompromised patients are likely to become increasingly common.