A new study found that 34.4% of children who developed dilated cardiomyopathy after myocarditis had a cardiomyopathy gene variant, while only 6.3% of control children had such variants. The authors say the difference was highly significant.
The research compared 32 children with both dilated cardiomyopathy and myocarditis to children who had myocarditis without dilated cardiomyopathy and to heart-healthy controls. The children with cardiomyopathy were part of the Pediatric Cardiomyopathy Registry (PCMR). Steven E. Lipshultz founded and leads the PCMR. Researchers describe a "double hit" model: a genetic mutation from birth plus an infection that reaches heart cells. The authors advise genetic testing and say the work appears in Circulation Heart Failure.
Difficult words
- dilated cardiomyopathy — A heart condition with a weak, enlarged heart.
- myocarditis — Inflammation or infection of the heart muscle.
- variant — A different form of a gene.
- significant — An important result not likely by chance.
- registry — A recorded list of people or cases.
- double hit — Two causes that together make disease happen.
- mutation — A change in a person's genes present at birth.
- genetic testing — A medical test that looks for gene changes.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- What does the "double hit" idea mean in this article?
- How could genetic testing help families with a child who has heart problems?
- Do you think it is important to compare sick children with healthy controls? Why or why not?
Related articles
Why African Men Should Get Tested for Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is a major health issue for African men. Early testing can help improve survival rates.
New device measures blood viscosity in real time
Researchers at the University of Missouri created a non-invasive device that monitors blood viscosity and density in real time using ultrasound and software. It can read blood without drawing samples and may help in diseases like sickle cell.
Emory study: 2023–24 COVID vaccine gives lasting antibodies
Emory University measured antibody responses in 24 people after the 2023–24 monovalent vaccine targeting Omicron XBB.1.5. The study found long-lasting antibodies, cross-reactive protection with the ancestral WA1 strain, and a 2.8-fold boost from immune imprinting.
Philippines Increases Efforts Against African Swine Fever
The Philippines is introducing new technologies to help control African Swine Fever, affecting pigs and their farmers. The government is also importing a vaccine amid concerns about safety.
Indian Black Scorpion Venom and New Antidote Development
Researchers in India are working on an antivenom for the Indian black scorpion, aiming to understand its venom better and improve treatments for scorpion stings.
Nearly 1 Billion People Lack Access to Disability Aids
Almost one billion people with disabilities need better access to assistive technology like wheelchairs and hearing aids. A recent UN report highlights the urgent need for more support in this area.