Although the majority of heart problems in children are present at birth and are therefore known as "congenital heart disease", there are some conditions, which develop or are acquired later.
These include Myocarditis, or Cardiomyopathy. Cardiomyopathy refers to heart muscle that is abnormal. Cardiomyopathy is classified as being restrictive, congestive, or hypertrophic. The cause may be from a viral infections, of genetic origin or in many cases the cause is unknown. Rheumatic fever may cause inflammation of the heart valves leading to permanent damage.
Last Updated: October 2003
Last Reviewed: November 2003
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