https://doi.org/10.4081/ecj.2023.11606
When infection strikes the heart: identifying and treating non-rheumatic streptococcal myocarditis in a young man with chest pain and concurrent streptococcal pharyngitis
Submitted: 23 July 2023
Accepted: 1 September 2023
Published: 8 September 2023
Accepted: 1 September 2023
Abstract Views: 1557
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All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article or claim that may be made by its manufacturer is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.
Authors
Pharyngitis and tonsillitis are common reasons for seeking medical care. While mostly viral, Streptococcus pyogenescauses 5-20% of adult cases. Non-rheumatic streptococcal myocarditis is a distinct form of myocarditis associated with streptococcal infection and has clinical features resembling acute coronary syndrome. It mainly affects young men and can lead to significant complications, including sudden cardiac death. We present a case of a young man with non-rheumatic streptococcal myocarditis that developed three days after streptococcal pharyngitis. This is the first documented case in which a treatment approach using a combination of benzathine phenoxymethylpenicillin, perindopril, and bisoprolol, followed by extended therapy with extencillin, resulted in a rapid improvement in the patient's cardiac function and general health. The insights gained from this case offer valuable guidance for managing similar conditions in the future.
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How to Cite
Mihevc, M. (2023). When infection strikes the heart: identifying and treating non-rheumatic streptococcal myocarditis in a young man with chest pain and concurrent streptococcal pharyngitis. Emergency Care Journal, 19(3). https://doi.org/10.4081/ecj.2023.11606
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