Iranian Heart Journal

Iranian Heart Journal

A Teen’s Scary ECG and a Positive Outcome: A Case Report

Document Type : Case Report

Authors
1 Department of Cardiology, School of Medicine, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran.
2 Maternal, Fetal and Neonatal Research Center, Family Health Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran.
3 Radiology Department, Rajaei Cardiovascular Medical and Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran.
Abstract
Acute myocarditis is a recognized complication of influenza infection, presenting with various characteristics. In this report, we present an atypical case of myocarditis that was successfully treated. Our patient was a 14-year-old girl who was admitted to the hospital due to drowsiness and loss of consciousness. Initially, she was diagnosed with hepatic encephalopathy due to elevated liver enzymes.
Further cardiac monitoring and an ECG revealed a scary ST-segment elevation and a wide QRS complex in most leads. An echocardiogram indicated a significantly reduced left ventricular ejection fraction of 25%.
Treatment commenced based on the presumptive diagnosis of myocarditis. Following partial recovery, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging was conducted, which confirmed the diagnosis.
Ultimately, the patient was effectively treated for fulminant myocarditis, a complication arising from influenza infection, and was closely monitored until her cardiac function normalized. Recognizing this condition and its potential implications can facilitate the early detection and management of critical cardiac issues. (Iranian Heart Journal 2025; 26(2): 82-87)
Keywords

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