What is the most common viral cause of pericarditis/myocarditis in infants and children?

Coxsackie B virus is recognized as the most common viral cause of pericarditis and myocarditis in infants and children. This group of viruses belongs to the enteroviruses and is known for its ability to cause inflammation of the heart muscle and surrounding tissues. In pediatrics, myocarditis can present with symptoms that may include fever, fatigue, tachycardia, and respiratory distress, making early recognition and treatment crucial.

Coxsackie B virus tends to have a higher association with more severe cases of myocarditis compared to other viral pathogens, as it directly damages myocardial cells and can lead to significant cardiac dysfunction. Investigations often reveal an increased level of inflammatory markers, and the diagnosis is typically supported through clinical presentation, imaging, and viral detection methods.

Parvovirus B19 and Coxsackie A virus, while they can affect children, are less frequently implicated in cases of pericarditis and myocarditis compared to Coxsackie B. Parvovirus is more commonly linked with conditions such as aplastic anemia in patients with underlying hemolytic disorders, and Coxsackie A primarily causes hand, foot, and mouth disease. Rubella virus, while known for its teratogenic effects and potential