Fulminant myocarditis following coronavirus disease 2019 vaccination: a case report

• Published in: European heart journal. Case reports 2022, Vol.6 (1), p.ytac007-ytac007
• Main Authors: Agdamag, Arianne Clare C, Gonzalez, Daniel, Carlson, Katie, Konety, Suma, McDonald, William C, Martin, Cindy M, Maharaj, Valmiki, Alexy, Tamas
• Format: Report
• Language: English
• ISSN: 2514-2119
• DOI: 10.1093/ehjcr/ytac007

BACKGROUNDThe BNT162b2 vaccine received emergency use authorization from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the prevention of severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection. We report a case of biopsy and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-proven severe myocarditis that developed in a previously healthy individual within days of receiving the first dose of the BNT162b2 COVID-19 vaccine. CASE SUMMARYAn 80-year-old female with no significant cardiac history presented with cardiogenic shock and biopsy-proven fulminant myocarditis within 12 days of receiving the BNT162b2 COVID-19 vaccine. She required temporary mechanical circulatory support, inotropic agents, and high-dose steroids for stabilization and management. Ultimately, her cardiac function recovered, and she was discharged in stable condition after 2 weeks of hospitalization. A repeat cardiac MRI 3 months after her initial presentation demonstrated stable biventricular function and continued improvement in myocardial inflammation. DISCUSSIONFulminant myocarditis is a rare complication of vaccination. Clinicians should stay vigilant to recognize this rare, but potentially deadly complication. Due to the high morbidity and mortality associated with COVID-19 infection, the clinical benefits of the BNT162b2 vaccine greatly outweighs the risks of complications.