Work

Chikungunya Myocarditis Mimicking Acute Coronary Syndrome in an Elderly Patient: A Case Report

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral infection. It causes mild fever, arthralgia, and rash in the majority of patients. Rarely, it can lead to serious cardiac complications such as myocarditis, primarily seen in patients with comorbidities. We present a 78-year-old elderly male with diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia who presented with acute heart failure following a febrile illness. Initially, he was managed as an acute coronary syndrome. However, positive chikungunya IgM antibodies and a cardiac MRI demonstrating mid-wall and subepicardial late gadolinium enhancement confirmed chikungunya myocarditis. Chikungunya myocarditis is rare but can be seen in patients with comorbidities. Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion to diagnose myocarditis in patients with fever and cardiac symptoms. Early evaluation with imaging and serology will enable early diagnosis and help prevent adverse outcomes.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.98346

Author: Tharindu Gabadage

Institution: Post Graduate Institute of Medicine, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka

Language: English

Topic: Viral Infections and Immunology Research

Subfield: Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4416936374