A 25-year-old woman presents with dyspnea, palpitations, and signs of heart failure 2 weeks after a viral upper respiratory infection. Cardiac MRI shows myocardial edema and late gadolinium enhancement in a mid-wall pattern. Endomyocardial biopsy is performed. Which histological finding is most characteristic of this condition?
- A Lymphocytic infiltrate with myocyte necrosis ✓
- B Eosinophilic infiltrate with vasculitis
- C Non-caseating granulomas with giant cells
- D Neutrophilic infiltrate with abscess formation
Correct answer: A. Lymphocytic infiltrate with myocyte necrosis
Explanation
Viral myocarditis is characterized by a lymphocytic infiltrate with associated myocyte necrosis. Eosinophilic infiltrate suggests hypersensitivity myocarditis. Non-caseating granulomas with giant cells are seen in cardiac sarcoidosis. Neutrophilic infiltrate with abscesses suggests bacterial myocarditis, which is rare.
Reference: Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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