Pediatric Myocarditis: Challenges in Diagnosis and Treatment.

Abstract

Pediatric myocarditis is a clinically diverse and often under-recognized inflammatory condition of the myocardium, with presentations that range from mild symptoms to acute heart failure. Advances in cardiac imaging, biomarker discovery, and molecular genetics have improved diagnostic precision and individualized care. Genetic studies indicate that 8-10% of pediatric patients with myocarditis carry pathogenic variants in cardiomyopathy-related genes, supporting the "double-hit" hypothesis where genetic predisposition interacts with viral or autoimmune triggers. This paradigm shift has underscored the relevance of precision medicine, emphasizing tailored management based on the underlying etiology and genetic background. While supportive care remains the foundation of therapy, including rest, hemodynamic monitoring, and guideline-directed medical therapy for heart failure, pharmacologic strategies are evolving. Corticosteroids are under investigation for modulating inflammation, with mixed results showing improvements in ventricular function but unclear survival benefits. Immunomodulatory agents, such as intravenous immunoglobulin and other immunosuppressive therapies, offer promise in reducing myocardial fibrosis and injury. Virus-specific therapies are increasingly utilized in confirmed viral myocarditis, improving outcomes in selected cases. Recent studies highlight the potential role of biologic agents targeting inflammatory pathways, such as interferons, interleukin modulators, and micro-RNA-based therapy in refractory cases. Despite limited pediatric-specific trial data, extrapolation from adult myocarditis studies continues to inform treatment direction. Continued translational research and pediatric-focused clinical trials are critical to optimizing treatment of myocarditis and improving long-term cardiac outcomes. Future investigations should focus on refining immunomodulatory strategies, identifying novel therapeutic targets, and enhancing risk stratification to improve individualized care.