What is a potential complication of untreated myocarditis?

The correct answer highlights that dilated cardiomyopathy is a potential complication of untreated myocarditis. Myocarditis is an inflammatory condition of the myocardium, which can be caused by infectious agents, autoimmune diseases, or exposure to certain toxins. When myocarditis goes untreated, the ongoing inflammation can lead to structural changes in the heart muscle, ultimately resulting in dilated cardiomyopathy.

In dilated cardiomyopathy, the heart's ability to pump blood is diminished due to the enlargement and weakening of the heart chambers. This condition can manifest as heart failure and is characterized by reduced systolic function. If the original inflammation is not addressed, the heart can continue to be damaged, leading to a chronic and progressive decline in cardiac output.

Other options, while related to cardiovascular health, do not directly arise as complications from untreated myocarditis. Coronary artery disease involves atherosclerosis and is not a direct outcome of myocarditis. Hypertension is related to increased systemic vascular resistance and may develop for numerous reasons, but it is not a primary complication of myocarditis itself. Myocardial infarction is caused by acute ischemia typically due to coronary artery obstruction, rather than being a consequence of myocarditis. Thus, dilated cardiomyopathy stands out as the