H1N1-associated Cardiomyopathy: A Case Series

Abstract

Abstract H1N1 influenza, also known as swine flu, is a viral infection that can result in severe respiratory illness. However, it is essential to recognize that it can also lead to cardiac complications such as viral myocarditis, which in turn leads to dilated cardiomyopathy, heart failure, and, in some cases, sudden cardiac death. Noninvasive diagnostic modalities such as transthoracic echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging further help in the diagnosis of cardiac complications. Early recognition and timely intervention are critical to improving outcomes in such cases. In most of these cases, just like the viral illness being self-limiting, these cardiac complications are also usually reversible with time. This case series highlights two different cases with H1N1-associated cardiomyopathy, which in turn becomes reversible on treatment.