Myocarditis: A Clinical Overview

Abstract

Purpose of review: In this paper we will review the modern diagnostic approach to patients with clinically suspected myocarditis as well as the treatment modalities and strategy in light of up-to-date clinical experience and scientific evidence.

Recent findings: Rapidly expanding evidence suggests that myocardial inflammation is frequently underdiagnosed or overlooked in clinical practice, although new therapeutic options have been validated. Moreover, the available evidence suggests that subclinical cardiac involvement has negative prognostic impact on morbidity and mortality and should be actively investigated and adequately treated. Myocarditis represents a growing challenge for physicians, due to increased referral of patients for endomyocardial biopsy (EMB) or cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR), and requires a highly integrated management by a team of caring physicians.

Keywords: Immunosuppressive therapy; Myocarditis; Systemic immune-mediated disease.