Myocarditis in Relation to Physical Exercise in the Young, a Retrospective Analysis of Myocarditis in Children Using the MYKKE Register—Presentation of a Study Concept

Objectives: In young, otherwise healthy individuals one of the most common acquired causes of arrhythmias, myocardial dysfunction, heart failure, and sudden cardiac death (SCD) is considered to be myocarditis. So far, there are recommendations for resuming physical activity and sports after myocarditis, including assessment of exercise intensity, establishing a stepwise training schedule, and recommendations for eligibility in competitive sports by the European Society of Cardiology. These recommendations are based on low evidence and are limited to the adult population. As most knowledge about postmyocarditis exercise, implications are based on case reports or studies involving small numbers, our aim is to study myocarditis with respect to exercise in a large cohort of children.

Methods: Since 2013, the German Society of Pediatric Cardiology (DGPK) has initiated the registration of all myocarditis patients in 25 centers across Germany and Austria in the so called MYKKE register. MYKKE provides a growing platform for diverse scientific activities. We want to examine those cases with respect to their exercise habits before the onset of the myocarditis, as well as their return to exercise, following the advice from their treating physicians. A detailed questionnaire regarding these aspects has been prepared and will be distributed to all participating centers, so as to reach a maximum of patients aged 6 to 18 years. Furthermore, a questionnaire will be distributed to the participating centers investigating the respective treatment guidelines with respect to physical activity after myocarditis of each center.

Conclusion: With this abstract, we want to present the study concept and call for participation in our attempt to improve the knowledge about the possible interactions between physical exercise and myocarditis.

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Artikel online veröffentlicht:
21. Februar 2021