Myocarditis as initial manifestation of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A case report

Abstract

Background: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus is a systemic autoimmune disease that involves the different members of the heart. One of the most common manifestations is pericaditis; nevertheless, other forms of cardiac involvement may also occur, including coronary artery disease, arteritis, and valvular disease. One of the presentations of systemic lupus erythematosus includes myocarditis and once suspected, it must be diagnosed and treated with the possibility of avoiding the fatal consequences for the patient. Case report: We present an interesting case of a 31 years old female patient with a history of chest pain, fever, fatigue, echocardiographic alterations and elevated levels of troponin, who is diagnosed with myocarditis and confirmation of systemic lupus erythematosus. The management was anti-ischemic and immunosuppressive therapy, with therapeutic response and satisfactory evolution. Conclusion: Clinically evident cardiomyopathy is seldom the initial manifestation of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, although it can also present in the course of disease with left ventricular dysfunction, acute heart failure, and pulmonary edema, is rapid in progression, and requires early diagnosis and care, multidisciplinary management for avoid fatal complications.