C-reactive protein: an early critical sign of clozapine-related myocarditis

Abstract

Objective:

We present a case of clozapine-related myocarditis, with a rising C-reactive protein as the only initial evidence supporting the diagnosis.

Method:

An otherwise healthy young male presenting with treatment-resistant schizophrenia was started on clozapine. Monitoring was performed.

Results:

At day 18 he developed fever, tachycardia and a raised C-reactive protein, while troponin levels and echocardiogram remained normal.

Conclusions:

Current protocols monitoring for myocarditis have their limitations and can often only be used to support a presumptive diagnosis of myocarditis. In keeping with the current clozapine monitoring guidelines, we demonstrate that a rise in C-reactive protein levels can be a critical early sign of myocarditis warranting close monitoring and serious consideration for cessation of clozapine.