Post-infectious myocardial infarction due to Epstein–Barr virus: a case report

Abstract Classified as a lymphotropic virus, Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) is a ubiquitous pathogen responsible for infectious mononucleosis that usually presents in childhood and is typically self-limiting. In adults, infection with EBV remains a diagnostic challenge given the vast array of clinical presentations, from mild symptoms such as malaise and dyspnea to severe outcomes like myocardial infarction. Atherosclerotic plaques within the coronary arteries contain inflammatory cells and can become activated in the setting of acute infections by chemokines and cytokines such as interleukin-6 and interleukin-8. Combined with endothelial dysfunction and platelet aggregation, subsequent coronary thrombosis results in the lack of oxygen delivery to myocardial tissues. We report a case of EBV-associated post-infectious MI in a patient who presented with chest pain that ultimately resulted in cardiogenic shock.