What is Pleurodynia?
Pleurodynia, also known as Bornholm disease or epidemic pleurodynia, is a condition characterized by sudden occurrences of severe chest or abdominal pain. It is caused by an acute viral infection, most commonly due to
Coxsackievirus B, a member of the Enterovirus genus. The term "pleurodynia" itself is derived from the Greek words for side (pleura) and pain (odynia), highlighting the intense pleuritic-like pain that is often associated with the condition.
How is Pleurodynia Related to Infectious Diseases?
Pleurodynia is primarily linked to viral infections, particularly those caused by
Enteroviruses. These viruses are highly contagious and often spread through fecal-oral transmission, respiratory droplets, or contact with contaminated surfaces. The condition exemplifies how infectious agents can manifest with musculoskeletal symptoms, which can sometimes complicate diagnosis as they mimic other conditions such as myocardial infarction or pleuritis.
What are the Symptoms of Pleurodynia?
The hallmark symptom of pleurodynia is sharp, stabbing pain in the chest or abdomen, which can be debilitating. This pain often worsens with movement, coughing, or breathing deeply. Additional symptoms may include
fever, headache, sore throat, fatigue, and muscle tenderness. The intense pain episodes may last from a few seconds to several minutes, and the overall duration of the illness typically spans 3-5 days, although fatigue and muscle weakness can linger.
How is Pleurodynia Diagnosed?
Diagnosing pleurodynia involves a combination of clinical assessment and laboratory tests. Physicians will often consider a patient's history of recent exposure to others with similar symptoms, particularly during an
outbreak. Laboratory tests may include blood tests to detect the presence of specific antibodies against Coxsackievirus or other enteroviruses, and viral cultures or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests from throat swabs or stool samples can be used to confirm the diagnosis.
What are the Treatment Options?
There is no specific antiviral treatment for pleurodynia. Management is primarily supportive, focusing on symptom relief.
Analgesics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen are commonly used to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Adequate hydration and rest are also important. In severe cases, opioid analgesics may be prescribed to manage the intense pain episodes.
Can Pleurodynia be Prevented?
Preventive measures for pleurodynia revolve around reducing the risk of enterovirus transmission. This includes practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing with soap and water, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and disinfecting surfaces that may be contaminated. During outbreaks, public health measures may be implemented to control the spread of the virus in community settings. What is the Prognosis for Individuals with Pleurodynia?
The prognosis for pleurodynia is generally good, with most individuals experiencing full recovery within a week. However, some may encounter prolonged fatigue or
muscle weakness post-infection. Recurrence of pleurodynia is rare but possible, particularly in individuals with compromised immune systems. Long-term complications are uncommon, although myocarditis or pericarditis can develop in rare cases.
Conclusion
Pleurodynia is an example of how infectious diseases can present with non-specific and diverse symptoms, underscoring the importance of considering viral etiologies in differential diagnoses. Understanding the pathogenesis, transmission, and management of pleurodynia contributes to better patient care and highlights the need for continued research in viral infections and their systemic manifestations.
