Is it just another case of vaccine-induced myocarditis? A case report and key insights.

BACKGROUND

As the number of individuals receiving the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine continues to rise, we have observed a concurrent increase in myopericarditis cases within the general population. This case serves as a reminder of the necessity to approach such occurrences with an open mind. Additionally, it underscores the importance of employing multi-modal imaging techniques alongside a collaborative, multi-disciplinary approach when addressing complex medical cases.

CASE SUMMARY

We present a case of a woman in her 50s attending the emergency department with pyrexia, lethargy, and chest pain following the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine. She had a background of systemic lupus erythematosus that was treated with immunosuppressive medication.Initial assessments revealed abnormal electrocardiogram, elevated troponin, and raised inflammatory markers. A diagnosis of likely vaccine-induced myopericarditis was made. However, blood cultures revealed , and cardiac imaging confirmed a right atrial (RA) thrombus that was considered to be infected. Subsequently, she was treated for myopericarditis and infected thrombus with intravenous antibiotics and anticoagulation. The patient did not wish for any invasive investigations given her clinical improvement. This is the first case of -related myopericarditis with an infected thrombus in the RA. We saw the full resolution of RA mass with medical management.

DISCUSSION

This case highlights the importance of multi-modality imaging techniques to facilitate the diagnosis of -related myopericarditis accompanied by an infected thrombus. It also emphasizes the importance of conducting interval scanning and follow-up assessments to ensure the resolution of the disease. To improve diagnostic accuracy, an endomyocardial biopsy can also be considered.