Prognosis

In over 80% of cases, myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) is cured. However, just as often heart rhythm disturbances remain for life. However, these are harmless and do not require further treatment.

In 15% of cases, dilated cardiomyopathy with cardiac insufficiency occurs (especially in viral myocarditis). Relatively rarely a fulminant (aggressive) course occurs with acute cardiac dysrhythmia or conduction disorders, which in the worst case can take a life-threatening course. The severity of the consequential damage is strongly dependent on how severe the heart muscle inflammation is.

The size of the affected heart region also plays a role. The larger the area, the more severe the consequential damage can be. Particularly if an inflammation of the heart muscle is not detected and treated in time or if the necessary break from sports is not observed, consequential damage occurs significantly more frequently.

If the heart muscle inflammation is accompanied by cardiac arrhythmia in the acute situation, it is possible that these will persist. If the cardiac arrhythmia becomes permanent, drug therapy is necessary. If many cells are destroyed in the heart muscle inflammation, the heart may not be able to maintain its pumping capacity.

In the most severe cases, sudden cardiac death can occur (especially during sporting activities). Heart failure (cardiac insufficiency) is also a possible late consequence. In some people, a heart transplantation is even necessary after myocarditis, as the heart is unable to pump sufficiently even in the long term.

Approximately 15% of myocardial inflammations develop into a so-called dilated cardiomyopathy.This is a disease of the heart muscle cells in which the heart chambers enlarge. This disease also eventually leads to heart failure. Inflammation of the heart muscle is a very serious disease that can be fatal.

If the disease is not diagnosed, sudden cardiac death can occur. This occurs particularly during physical exertion. If large parts of the heart are affected by the inflammation, heart failure can occur.

Depending on the severity of the heart muscle inflammation, a fatal outcome is also possible here. If the danger is recognized in time, the consequences can be mitigated by early therapy. Under certain circumstances, a heart transplant may even be necessary.