Myocardites aiguës

Myocarditis is defined as inflammation of the myocardium accompanied by myocellular necrosis. Acute myocarditis must be considered in patients who present with recent onset of cardiac failure or arrhythmia. Fulminant myocarditis is a distinct entity characterized by sudden onset of severe congestive heart failure or cardiogenic shock, usually following a flu-like illness. If such a severe condition is suspected, the patient should be transferred to a medical-surgical center, which has gained experience in mechanical circulatory support. Since full recovery can be expected in a few days or weeks in that case, a temporary device should be implanted if necessary. Finally, understanding the triphasic nature of viral myocarditis may help define in the near future tailored immunomodulatory treatment strategies.