Pediatric Viral Myocarditis Treatment & Management
- Author: Edwin Rodriguez-Cruz, MD; Chief Editor: Stuart Berger, MD more...
Approach Considerations
In the acute phase of viral myocarditis, the patient should be admitted to the hospital, even if only mild signs of respiratory distress or congestive heart failure are present. Rapid progression to overt heart failure, hemodynamic collapse, or both may occur. Consultation with a cardiologist is indicated. Transfer to a facility with intensive and cardiology care may be required.
Medical care is aimed at minimizing the body’s hemodynamic demands. No specific proven therapy is available to prevent myocardial damage, but maintenance of tissue perfusion is the goal to avoid further complications. Normal arterial blood oxygen levels should be maintained with supplemental oxygen as needed.
Conventional management of viral myocarditis includes the use of digoxin, diuretics, and afterload reduction. Severe cases with hemodynamic compromise may require intravenous inotropic agents, afterload reduction, vasodilators, and anticoagulation. Discharge patients with viral myocarditis when they are stable on oral medications.
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has been used as an interim treatment to provide rest to the heart and as a bridge for transplant in selected patients with good results.
Diet and activity
A low-salt diet is recommended for patients with congestive heart failure. Bed rest is necessary during the acute phase of the illness and may slow the intramyocardial replication of the virus. Activity is permitted as partial or complete recovery is achieved. Restrict patient activity based on performance after the acute phase.
Monitoring
Monitor medication doses and adverse effects. Serial echocardiography is useful in monitoring ventricular function. Avoid negative inotropes. Be aware of the possibility of a further decrease in ventricular function.
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