Acute myocarditis is a rare disease that causes inflammation of the heart muscle. It can have various causes, including viral or bacterial infections, autoimmune disorders, and exposure to certain toxins.

However, a recent case report from India suggests that another possible cause of acute myocarditis could be the “blessing” from a monkey.

What is acute myocarditis?

Acute myocarditis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the heart muscle, also known as the myocardium.

The myocardium is responsible for pumping blood around the body, so inflammation can interfere with this process and lead to serious complications such as heart failure, arrhythmias, and sudden cardiac death. Acute myocarditis can affect people of all ages, but it is most common in young adults and children.

What are the causes of acute myocarditis?

The causes of acute myocarditis can be varied and often difficult to determine. Some of the known causes include:.

Viral or bacterial infections, such as influenza, coxsackie virus, or Lyme disease.
Autoimmune disorders, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
Toxic exposures, such as drugs, alcohol, or certain chemicals.
Genetic or inherited factors.
Certain heart procedures or surgeries.

The case of monkey’s blessing

A recent case report from India suggests that acute myocarditis may have an unusual cause: the “blessing” of a monkey. The report describes the case of a 55-year-old man who went to a temple in India to seek the blessings of a holy monkey.

The monkey touched the man on the chest, after which he felt a burning sensation and chest pain. He was later diagnosed with acute myocarditis and hospitalized for treatment.

While this case is certainly unusual, it is not the first time that animals have been implicated in causing human diseases. For example, some infections can be transmitted by animal bites, such as rabies or Lyme disease.

However, the exact mechanism by which the monkey’s touch caused acute myocarditis in this case is unclear.

Diagnosis and treatment of acute myocarditis

Acute myocarditis can be difficult to diagnose, as its symptoms can be similar to those of other heart-related conditions. However, some of the common symptoms include:.

Chest pain or discomfort
Shortness of breath
Fatigue or weakness
Fever
Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet
Rapid or irregular heartbeat

To diagnose acute myocarditis, doctors may order several tests, including:.

Blood tests to check for signs of inflammation or infection
Echocardiogram or MRI to evaluate the heart’s structure and function
Electrocardiogram (ECG) to check for abnormal heart rhythms
Cardiac biopsy to obtain a sample of heart tissue for testing

Treatment for acute myocarditis depends on the underlying cause of the inflammation. If the condition is caused by a viral or bacterial infection, antibiotics or antiviral medications may be prescribed.

If an autoimmune disorder is the cause, immunosuppressive therapy may be recommended. In severe cases, hospitalization and supportive care, such as intravenous fluids and medications to regulate heart rhythms, may be necessary.

Prevention of acute myocarditis

Prevention of acute myocarditis can be challenging, as some of the causes are difficult to avoid. However, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing the condition:.

Practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands often and avoiding close contact with people who are sick
Get vaccinated against viruses that can cause myocarditis, such as influenza or hepatitis B
Avoid exposure to chemicals or toxins that can damage the heart, such as alcohol or tobacco smoke
If you have an autoimmune disorder, work closely with your doctor to manage your condition and reduce your risk of complications

Conclusion

Acute myocarditis is a serious condition that can have various causes, including viral infections, autoimmune disorders, and toxic exposures.

While the case report from India suggests that the blessing of a monkey may also be a possible cause, more research is needed to confirm this hypothesis. If you experience symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or fatigue, it is important to seek medical attention promptly, as early diagnosis and treatment can improve your chances of a full recovery.