Dengue Myocarditis: A Case Report and Major Review

Abstract

Dengue is a viral disease transmitted by the bite of a female arthropod, prevalent primarily in tropical and subtropical regions. Its manifestations include asymptomatic infections, dengue fever, and a severe form called <i>hemorrhagic dengue</i> or <i>dengue shock syndrome</i>. Atypical manifestations can also occur, called <i>expanded dengue syndrome</i>. We describe the case of a 43-year-old man with an unusual presentation of dengue, demonstrating a workup suggestive of myocardial and pericardial damage. Symptoms and markers indicative of cardiac compromise improved after five days on anti-inflammatory treatment. Dengue myocarditis is considered an uncommon complication of dengue, although its reported incidence is likely an underestimation. In general, most cases of dengue myocarditis are self-limited, with only a minority at risk of progressing to heart failure. In order to improve recognition and prevent progression, healthcare providers should maintain a high degree of suspicion regarding potential cardiac complications in patients with dengue.