Dressler’s syndrome is due to: March 2005
**Core Concept**
Dressler's syndrome is a rare inflammatory condition that occurs after a myocardial infarction (MI) or cardiac surgery, characterized by pericarditis, myocarditis, and sometimes pleuritis. It is also known as post-myocardial infarction syndrome.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Dressler's syndrome is thought to be an autoimmune response triggered by the release of antigens from the damaged heart tissue during an MI or cardiac surgery. This leads to the formation of antibodies against the heart's own tissues, resulting in an inflammatory reaction. The syndrome typically occurs 2-8 weeks after the initial cardiac event.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Incorrect because Dressler's syndrome is not primarily caused by a viral infection.
**Option B:** Incorrect because it is not a direct result of cardiac arrhythmias.
**Option C:** Incorrect because it does not involve an allergic reaction to a medication.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Dressler's syndrome can be treated with anti-inflammatory medications such as corticosteroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and in severe cases, immunosuppressive therapy may be required.
**Correct Answer: C. An autoimmune response.**