Idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy and myocarditis in children

With a mortality rate approaching 33%, dilated cardiomyopathy in children remains a serious clinical problem. Cardiac function improves in approximately one third of patients and one third have complete resolution of this condition. Endomyocardial biopsy is diagnostic of myocarditis in 5% to 15% of patients. Treatment consists of therapy for congestive heart failure, immunosuppression, and transplantation.