Acute myocarditis versus myocardial infarction: evaluation and management of the young patient with prolonged chest pain--case reports
Stratmann, H.G.
Angiology 39(3 Pt 1): 253-258
1988
ISSN/ISBN: 0003-3197 PMID: 2833136 Document Number: 306948
Both acute myocarditis and myocardial infarction must be considered in the differential diagnosis of the young patient with angina-like chest pain. Initial assessment may be difficult, since both diseases may produce similar clinical presentations, electrocardiographic changes, and elevations in cardiac enzymes. Early differentiation is important, however, since myocarditis and myocardial infarction differ greatly in their management and prognosis. These difficulties are illustrated by the 2 cases presented, and guidelines for diagnosis and treatment are given.