PURPOSE: Acute fulminant myocarditis with dilated cardiomyopathy caused by Parvovirus B19 may present with cardiogenic shock refractory to the maximum dose of inotropics and intra-aortic balloon pumping (IABP). The benefits of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support for patients with life-threatening myocarditis has been established. Drotrecogin alfa, recombinant human activated protein C, has antithrombotic, anti-inflammatory and profibrinolytic properties. The effectiveness from the circulatory support (ECOM or IABP) and activated PaurOtein C use in managing acute myocarditis with dilated cardiomyopathy caused by Parvovirus B19 has to be defined.
METHODS: Four patients (2 male, 2 female, mean age 37.2 years) presented with congestive heart failure 3 to 4 days after flu-like symptoms (intermittent fever 38-39 [degrees]C, dyspnea and chest tightness). Chest roentgenograms showed cardiomegaly and bilateral pulmonary infiltrates. EKG revealed non-specific ST wave changes. 2-D echocardiograms demonstrated severe myocardial dysfunction with LVEF, measured between 18.4 to 22% (mean, 19.5%). Coronary angiography was performed in each patient and excluded ischemic heart disease. Acute decompensation with more than 2 organ Failure (heart and lungs) and unresponsive to more than 2 inotropics and acute respiratory therapy were indications for the use of circulatory support by IABP (3pts) and/or ECMO (3pts) as well as activated protein C (3pts). Serological test and myocardial biopsy for Parvovirus B19 was positive in 3 pts and one pt, respectively.
RESULTS: All three pts with ECMO and IABP support were weaned. Follow-up LVEF measured were 53%, 53%, 55% and 60%, respectively. However one pt died one month later because the deterioration of her SLE condition and repeated infection. There were no neurologic sequelae in survivors.
CONCLUSION: Use of circulatory support and activated protein C is an effective alternative for treating life-threatening viral myocarditis with dilated cardiomyopathy, especially caused by Parvovirus B19 virus.
CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Parvovirus B19virus can cause severe myocarditis with dilated cardiomyopathy and circulatory collapse. Combined use of Drotrecogin alfa and ECMO and/or IABP is an effective novel therapy for this cohort of patients.
DISCLOSURE: Tsung Tsai, None.
Tsung P. Tsai PhD * Shyh M. Tsao MD Yi L. Wu MD Jung M. Yu MD Kuei C. Chan MD Kwo C. Ueng MD Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan ROC
COPYRIGHT 2005 American College of Chest Physicians
COPYRIGHT 2005 Gale Group