Idiopathic giant cell myocarditis--a distinctive clinico-pathological entity.

Abstract

Eleven cases of idiopathic giant cell myocarditis are described, The pathological features are unmistakable with serpiginous areas of myocardial necrosis, at the margins of which giant cells can be seen on histological examination. The aetiology of the condition remains obscure but associated pathology suggests that altered immunity may be a factor. The rapid clinical course is, however, highly suggestive of an infective cause though none has been found.

Thymoma associated with fatal myocarditis and polymyositis in a 58-year-old man following treatment with carboplatin and paclitaxel: A case report

“…Giant cell myocarditis usually occurs in isolation, but has been reported in association with a variety of autoimmune diseases (12,15,16) and chronic infections (17,18). It is diagnosed in approximately 1% of patients with thymoma (12).…”

Idiopathic Giant Cell Myocarditis: A Case Report

“…In previous studies, myocarditis has known to contribute to 6-12% [4,5] [7] Serpiginous areas of necrosis and grayish patches in the myocardium allowing an easy naked eye diagnosis on gross examination are common. [8,9,10] Histologically, ICGM is confirmed by muscle necrosis with giant cells at the margins. Within the areas of necrosis, a florid histiocytic and eosinophilic cell infiltrate can be seen.…”

“…The youngest reported patient was of six weeks age. [13] The oldest reported patient was 88 years old. [14] majority of cases of giant-cell myocarditis occur in otherwise healthy persons (81 percent).The mean age in a few case series has been observed as 42.6 to 57 years.…”

Rapidly Progressive Cardiac Failure Due to Giant Cell Myocarditis

“…Biopsy reveals serpiginous areas of myocardial necrosis [7] and diffuse intramyocardial inflammatory infiltrate consisting of abundant lymphocytes, with eosinophils and plasma cells, and prominent multinucleated giant cells [7]. The hallmark is the presence of giant cells, fused epithelioid histiocytes usually 40 to 50 μm in size with multiple nuclei.…”

“…In later stages, mural thrombus can be present. Despite extensive myocardial damage, it is unusual to see pericarditis or endocarditis [7].…”