epidemic pleurodynia

Epidemic Pleurodynia: A Viral Infection Characterized by Sharp, Stabbing Pains

Epidemic pleurodynia is a viral infection that causes sharp, stabbing pains in the chest or abdomen. It is also known as Bornholm disease. The symptoms of epidemic pleurodynia typically subside within 2 to 4 days but may recur within a few days and persist or recur for several weeks [1][14][15].

Causes and Transmission

The viruses that cause epidemic pleurodynia are highly contagious and spread through close contact with an infected person. Outbreaks can occur in areas where groups of people are in close proximity, such as schools, camps, or communities [2]. The illness most commonly affects people younger than age 30, although older individuals may also be affected [4][11].

Symptoms

The symptoms of epidemic pleurodynia include:

• Sharp, stabbing pains in the chest or abdomen
• Fever
• Sweating
• Rapid heartbeat
• Muscle tenderness and swelling

In rare cases, complications such as aseptic meningitis, orchitis, and myopericarditis may occur [1][14].

Seasonality

Epidemic pleurodynia is more likely to occur in the summer and early fall months, with up to 90% of outbreaks occurring during this time period [4][11].

Recovery

After recovery from epidemic pleurodynia, individuals are still susceptible to subsequent infections with other group B coxsackieviruses [14].

References:

[1] Context result 1 [2] Context result 2 [3] Context result 12 [4] Context result 11 [14] Context result 15

Symptoms of Epidemic Pleurodynia

Epidemic pleurodynia, also known as Bornholm disease, is a viral infection that causes severe chest or abdominal pain. The symptoms of this condition can develop suddenly and typically last for several days.

• Sudden Onset Chest or Abdominal Pain: The most common symptom of epidemic pleurodynia is sudden onset chest or abdominal pain, which worsens with deep breathing or movement (pleuritic in nature) [3].
• Pleuritic Chest Pain: The chest pain is typically unilateral, affecting half or part of the chest or abdomen [3].
• General Malaise: People affected by epidemic pleurodynia often experience general malaise, headache, fever, and sore throat [8].
• Muscle Inflammation: In some cases, the condition can cause muscle inflammation (myositis) in the abdomen or chest [9].

Duration of Symptoms

The symptoms of epidemic pleurodynia usually last for 4 to 6 days, although they may recur within a few days and persist or recur for several weeks [5][13]. In children, the symptoms typically last about 1-2 days, while in adults, they can last up to 6 days [6].

Complications

In rare cases, epidemic pleurodynia can be complicated by other conditions such as aseptic meningitis, orchitis, and myopericarditis [11].

Diagnostic Tests for Epidemic Pleurodynia

Epidemic pleurodynia, also known as Bornholm disease or epidemic myalgia, is a viral infection that causes severe chest or abdominal pain. While the diagnosis is often made based on symptoms alone, various diagnostic tests can be performed to confirm the presence of the condition.

Common Diagnostic Tests:

• Blood tests: These may include white blood cell count and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels to check for an inflammatory response in the body [4][5]. Elevated levels of these markers can indicate infection.
• Chest X-rays: Although often normal, chest X-rays may be performed to rule out other conditions that could cause chest pain [1].
• Serology tests: These are used to detect the presence of antibodies created due to the virus, which can confirm a diagnosis of epidemic pleurodynia [12].
• Swab tests: These can be used to identify the virus responsible for the infection.

Importance of Early Diagnosis:

Early diagnosis is crucial in identifying and treating epidemic pleurodynia. Medical professionals play a vital role in diagnosing and managing this condition, especially in cases where symptoms may be hard to distinguish from those due to other conditions [13].

References:

[1] Context result 1 [4] Context result 4 [5] Context result 5 [12] Context result 12 [13] Context result 13

Treatment Options for Epidemic Pleurodynia

Epidemic pleurodynia, also known as Bornholm disease, typically does not have a specific treatment, but rather supportive care to manage symptoms. The primary goal is to alleviate pain and discomfort.

• Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be used to reduce pain and fever [4][5][12].
• Pain Management: Aspirin should not be given to children due to the risk of Reye's syndrome [7][8]. Instead, other NSAIDs like ibuprofen are recommended.
• Supportive Care: Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, including applying heat to affected muscles and using NSAIDs for pain relief [10][11].
• No Specific Medication: There is no specific medication or treatment available for epidemic pleurodynia. Management is largely symptomatic.

It's essential to note that while these treatments can help alleviate symptoms, they do not cure the condition. In most cases, symptoms subside on their own within a few days [2]. If you're experiencing severe pain or discomfort, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional for further guidance and support.

Differential Diagnoses for Epidemic Pleurodynia

Epidemic pleurodynia, also known as Bornholm disease, can be challenging to diagnose due to its similarity in symptoms with other conditions. Here are some differential diagnoses to consider:

• Myocardial Infarction: The severe chest pain associated with epidemic pleurodynia can often be mistaken for a heart attack [3]. However, the pain from epidemic pleurodynia typically worsens with breathing and is not accompanied by electrocardiogram (ECG) changes.
• Pneumonia: In children, epidemic pleurodynia may present as pneumonia, especially if there are symptoms of respiratory distress [13].
• Aseptic Meningitis: This condition can occur in conjunction with epidemic pleurodynia and presents with symptoms such as headache, fever, and stiff neck.
• Orchitis: Epidemic pleurodynia has been associated with orchitis (inflammation of the testicles) in some cases [10].
• Myopericarditis: This is a rare but serious condition that can occur in conjunction with epidemic pleurodynia, characterized by inflammation of the heart muscle and pericardium.
• Bronchiolitis Obliterans: This is another condition to consider in the differential diagnosis of epidemic pleurodynia [1].

Key Points

• Epidemic pleurodynia presents as sudden and severe chest or upper abdominal pain, typically caused by an enteroviral infection [7].
• The involved truncal muscles may become swollen and tender.
• Symptoms usually subside in 2-4 days but may recur within a few days and persist or recur for several weeks.

References

[1] Mizuta K, Yamakawa T, Kurokawa K, et al. Epidemic myalgia and myositis associated with human parechovirus type 3 infections occur not only in adults but also ...

[3] Pleurodynia Differential Diagnoses. Updated: Dec 08, 2020 Author: Irina Petrache, MD

[7] Feb 9, 2023 — Pleurodynia, formerly called Bornholm disease, refers to sudden and severe chest or upper abdominal pain, typically caused by an enteroviral infection.

[10] The involved truncal muscles may become swollen and tender. Cases of epidemic pleurodynia are infrequently associated with aseptic meningitis, orchitis, and, less commonly, myopericarditis.

[13] Epidemic pleurodynia (also known as Bornholm disease) is a painful infection of skeletal muscle most commonly caused by the group B coxsackieviruses ... Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls Copy.