Case Report: Dilated Cardiomyopathy in a Newborn, a Potential Association With SARS-COV-2

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to describe the clinical course of a newborn who developed dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) after COVID-19 infection.Methods: We retrospectively assessed the clinical notes of a pediatric patient with decompensated heart failure and who was previously positive for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).Results: A 23-day-old newborn presented with diarrhea, hypoactivity, tachypnea, and lethargy. The infant progressed to develop respiratory failure and required orotracheal intubation due to apnea. A nasopharyngeal swab tested positive for SARS-COV-2. An echocardiogram (ECHO) demonstrated severe left ventricular dysfunction. The patient was discharged after 18 days with furosemide and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors. During the follow-up period, the infant had two episodes of decompensated heart failure, with evidence of DCM. Investigations for known causes of secondary DCM were negative. The infant was promptly referred for heart transplantation.Conclusion: Although rare, we have observed a case of DCM in a newborn following COVID-19 disease. DCM may be a complication following COVID-19 disease in newborns.