COVID-19 Vaccine Induced Pericarditis

ABSTRACT

Acute pericarditis is an inflammation of the pericardium accompanied by chest pain, pericardial effusion, and electrocardiographic (ECG) changes. It is mainly caused by viruses, followed by bacterial and other infections, tumors, underlying diseases, trauma, medications, and environmental factors. Several reports have emerged on pericarditis as a potential side effect associated primarily with mRNA vaccines, particularly in male adolescents after the second dose. However, the exact mechanism of COVID-19 vaccine-induced pericarditis remains elusive. The most common clinical presentation seen in patients is the elevation in troponin level, as well as C-reactive protein. To exclude other etiologies causing pericarditis, a meticulous diagnostic workup is performed. Thus, a detailed history and physical examination and the timing and type of the vaccine are important. Owning to the novel etiology of pericarditis caused by the COVID-19 vaccine, treatment is based on the patient's symptoms and diagnostic workup, including pain management and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents with or without colchicine. However, dual therapy with intravenous immune globulins and/or corticosteroids may be beneficial in severe cases. This chapter will emphasize the emerging adverse events of vaccineinduced pericarditis, summarizing its epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnosis, management, and limitation. © 2022 Nova Science Publishers, Inc.