Fulminant Myocarditis: Brief Review

Fulminant myocarditis (FM) is a rare disease characterized by acute hemodynamic impairment and ventricular arrhythmias due to severe myocardial inflammation. It is typically preceded by a viral infection but any of multiple other toxic and infective agents may also be the inciting agent. Diagnosis is based on biomarkers and/or cardiac imaging, but endomyocardial biopsy is the standard test for confirming the diagnosis. FM usually requires therapeutic support of cardiac function and treatment of malignant arrhythmias. Contrary to prior concepts, recent evidence has revealed that patients with FM are more likely to die or need heart transplantation than those with the nonfulminant form of the disease. Early recognition and aggressive management are essential for favorable outcomes.