Influenza H1N1 infection leading to cardiac tamponade in a previously healthy patient: A case report

• Main Authors: Robinder S Sidhu, Abhinav Sharma, Ian D Paterson, Kevin R Bainey
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Wolters Kluwer Medknow Publications 2016-01-01
• Series: Research in Cardiovascular Medicine
• Subjects: H1N1; Influenza; Cardiac Tamponade; Myopericarditis
• Online Access: http://www.rcvmonline.com/article.asp?issn=2251-9572;year=2016;volume=5;issue=3;spage=6;epage=6;aulast=Sidhu;type=0

Introduction: The cardiac manifestations of influenza A are broad, ranging from self-limited pericarditis to fatal cardiomyopathy. The 2009 H1N1 influenza A (H1N1) strain is a rare cause of pericarditis, and its role in developing a pericardial effusion leading to tamponade has infrequently been reported. Case Presentation: We describe a case of a young female with no prior cardiovascular history who presents with a pericardial effusion and shock secondary to cardiac tamponade from pericarditis due to H1N1 influenza A. Conclusions: This case highlights the potential severity of H1N1 infections and the utility of considering cardiac tamponade in patients presenting with influenza symptoms and circulatory collapse.