Myocarditis in systemic lupus erythematosus AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICINE Wijetunga, M., Rockson, S. 2002; 113 (5): 419-423

Abstract

Although clinical manifestations of myocarditis in systemic lupus erythematosus are uncommon, noninvasive cardiac testing may detect subclinical cases. The pathogenesis of myocarditis in systemic lupus erythematosus has been ascribed to many factors, including autoimmunity, medications, and coexisting diseases. Lupus myocarditis merits urgent clinical attention because of the likely progression to arrhythmias, conduction disturbances and heart block, dilated cardiomyopathy, and heart failure. Endomyocardial biopsy can be used to identify the underlying inflammatory histopathology. Usual therapy includes high-dose corticosteroids, in addition to standard cardiac medications.

View details for Web of Science ID 000178799400009

View details for PubMedID 12401537