Recurrent myocarditis--an important mimic of ischaemic myocardial infarction

Abstract

Patients presenting with a syndrome of chest pain, elevated cardiac enzyme levels with or without electrocardiogram changes are a common diagnostic and management problem in cardiology. Most commonly, this is due to ischaemic myocardial infarction secondary to coronary artery disease. However, when coronary angiography does not demonstrate any obstructive coronary artery lesion, the diagnosis of myocarditis should be considered. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging is helpful towards making this diagnosis. Here, we describe the first reported Australian cases of recurrent myocarditis presenting with ischaemic chest pain and elevated cardiac enzyme levels. These cases serve as an important reminder to clinicians that myocarditis is an important mimic of ischaemic myocardial infarction.