A patient with giant cell myocarditis presenting with orbital myositis was successfully treated with biventricular assist devices and subsequent heart transplantation.
Case Report (n=1)
Giant cell myocarditis can initially present atypically as orbital myositis before rapidly progressing to fulminant heart failure requiring prompt recognition, mechanical circulatory support, and heart transplantation.
Giant cell myocarditis (GCM), a rapidly progressive inflammation of the myocardium, is associated with fulminant heart failure, refractory ventricular arrhythmias, and conduction system abnormalities. Few case reports have noted orbital myositis as the initial clinical presentation. Our case demonstrates a unique presentation of GCM with only ocular symptoms, which unlike prior studies, rapidly progressed to heart failure, tachyarrhythmias, and conduction disease. Our case necessitated quick recognition and treatment with mechanical support making this the first known case of GCM with successful placement of biventricular assist devices and ultimately with heart transplantation.
Garg et al. (Wed,) conducted a case report in Giant Cell Myocarditis (n=1). Biventricular assist devices and heart transplantation was evaluated. A patient with giant cell myocarditis presenting with orbital myositis was successfully treated with biventricular assist devices and subsequent heart transplantation.