Background: Haemophilus influenzae is a gram-negative pleomorphic organism with variable shape. There are six major serotypes designated as “a through f.” Non-typable and type b strains are the most clinically relevant strains causing pneumonia. Only a few cases of myocarditis are associated with this organism. Case report: Here, we are reporting a rare case of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and myocarditis due to H. influenzae and discuss challenges in management. Further, this case shows the utility of multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in early diagnosis of H. influenzae . Conclusion: The possibility of myocarditis due to this common organism should be kept in mind while managing a case of pneumonia, especially with a predisposing condition like uncontrolled diabetes.
Gupta et al. (Wed,) studied this question.