Acute Myocarditis Complicated by Permanent Complete AV Block Associated with Salmonella Group B Gastroenteritis

ABSTRACT

Acute infectious myocarditis in children can be caused by many pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi and protozoa. Patients may be asymptomatic or may have 'flu-like symptoms' to life-theratening arrhythmias or sudden death. We herein report a case of acute myocarditis complicated by complets and permanent AV block, associated with Salmonella group B gastroenteritis in a previously healthy 5-year-old boy. Presenting symptoms were dyspnea, cyanosis, vomiting, and diarrhea. Electrocardiography on admission showed very slow ventricular escape rhythm at 37 beats/minute. He was treated with antibiotics, inotropic agents, ventilatory support, and transvenous temporary pacemaker. Ten days later, permanent dual chamber pacemaker was implanted. All three consecutive stool cultures done after admission grew Salmonella group B. His ventricular function recovered rapidly and completely and he became fully active 2 months after the onset. However, his conduction system was totally destroyed and at last follw up evaluation 2 years after the onset, he is still totally dependent on the pacemaker without any escape rhythm.