Full Recovery of a Child with Fulminant Myocarditisafter Levosimendan Therapy

Abstract

Background: Fulminant myocarditis is a rare, life-threatening condition. Decompensated heart failure caused by fulminantmyocarditis is managed with inotropic agents, mechanical ventilation, and mechanical circulatory support. Levosimendan isa novel inotropic agent that also has vasodilatory and cardioprotective properties. However, information about levosimendanuse in children is limited in the literature. Case Report: We report the full recovery of a 3.5-year-old male patient with an inotrope-resistant heart failure treated withlevosimendan therapy who was diagnosed as having fulminant myocarditis after presenting with acute decompensated heartfailure and low cardiac output. Conclusion: Levosimendan therapy may offer an effective treatment for children with acute decompensated heart failuresecondary to fulminant myocarditis resistant to standard therapy.