Cause 9. Systemic Diseases: The Broad-Spectrum Causes
Systemic diseases, including sarcoidosis and vasculitis, can contribute to the development of myocarditis. These conditions, which involve inflammation and damage to multiple organ systems, can have serious implications for heart health.
Sarcoidosis is a disease characterized by the formation of granulomas, clumps of inflammatory cells, in various organs. When these granulomas form in the heart, which occurs in about 5% of patients with sarcoidosis, they can cause myocarditis. It’s important to note that myocarditis resulting from sarcoidosis can be challenging to diagnose, as it often lacks distinctive symptoms. As such, patients with sarcoidosis should be regularly monitored for heart-related complications.
Vasculitis refers to a group of disorders characterized by inflammation of the blood vessels. Certain types of vasculitis, such as Giant cell arteritis and Takayasu arteritis, can involve the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle. If these arteries become inflamed, it can result in myocarditis.
Because systemic diseases like sarcoidosis and vasculitis can affect various parts of the body, a comprehensive and multi-disciplinary approach to management is required. Regular monitoring and follow-ups with healthcare professionals can help mitigate the risk of myocarditis and other complications. (8)
