Influenza H1N1 Infection Leading To Cardiac Tamponade in a Previously Healthy Patient: A Case Report

INTRODUCTION: The cardiac manifestations of influenza A are broad, ranging from self-limited pericarditis to fatal cardiomyopathy. The 2009 H1N1 influenza A (H1N1) strain is a rare cause of pericarditis, and its role in developing a pericardial effusion leading to tamponade has infrequently been reported. CASE PRESENTATION: We describe a case of a young female with no prior cardiovascular history who presents with a pericardial effusion and shock secondary to cardiac tamponade from pericarditis due to H1N1 influenza A. CONCLUSIONS: This case highlights the potential severity of H1N1 infections and the utility of considering cardiac tamponade in patients presenting with influenza symptoms and circulatory collapse.