Acute myopericarditis versus acute coronary syndrome: case report

Abstract

Acute myopericarditis is an acute pericarditis with minor myocardial compromise. During the first hours from onset the clinical presentation can be confused with an acute coronary syndrome, especially when the electrocardiogram presents with ST segment elevation and increased markers of myocardial necrosis. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging plays an important role to differentiate between these two diseases. We present the case of a 36-year-old male who was admitted with chest pain, ST segment elevation and increased markers of myocardial necrosis. Coronary angiography is performed reporting no significant angiographic findings. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging with contrast medium (gadolinium) is performed, reporting mild pericardial effusion, presence of edema, and delayed uptake with a subepicardial and intramyocardial patchy pattern on the lateral wall. These test findings confirm the diagnosis of myopericarditis.