What is the most common viral cause of pediatric myocarditis?

Coxsackievirus B is recognized as the most common viral cause of myocarditis in children. This virus, part of the Enterovirus family, has a strong association with inflammatory heart disease due to its ability to invade myocytes (heart muscle cells) and trigger an immune response. This can result in damage to the myocardium, leading to symptoms such as chest pain, heart failure, or arrhythmias in affected children.

While other viruses, including Influenza virus, Adenovirus, and COVID-19, can also cause myocarditis, Coxsackievirus B has been extensively studied and is noted for its more frequent occurrence in the pediatric population specifically relating to myocarditis. This connection has been established through clinical studies and case reports indicating a clear link between Coxsackievirus B infection and subsequent heart inflammation.

In summary, the prevalence and specific mechanisms by which Coxsackievirus B contributes to myocarditis make it the leading viral culprit in pediatric cases, underscoring its significance in the differential diagnosis of myocarditis in children.