MYKKE Echo

Generation of image-based meshes of the left ventricle for deformation analysis in children and adolescents with suspected myocarditis, based on 2D echocardiography data.

Myocarditis is an inflammation of the heart muscle that can lead to heart failure. With an incidence of 1–2 per 100,000 children, it is one of the rarest childhood diseases. Particularly in children under two years of age, the disease can take a severe course and necessitate cardiac support or even a heart transplant.

Adolescents often experience milder courses and retain normal heart function in more than half of cases.

The disease presents in very different ways and is difficult to diagnose, making it a major challenge for doctors. Knowledge of the significance of diagnostic parameters from laboratory tests and imaging for identifying risks and predicting treatment outcomes is of crucial importance. MYKKE is the largest registry for children with myocarditis worldwide and contains data on over 950 patients under the age of 18. These data help to examine the characteristics and course of the disease in children in detail. In this project, artificial intelligence (AI) methods are used to analyse the shape and size of the left ventricle, as well as its motion patterns, based on 2D echocardiography data. 

The aim is to better characterise the risks and clinical course of the disease in children and adolescents with suspected myocarditis and to support personalised treatment.

The project is supported by the Berliner Sparkassenstiftung and led by PD Dr Franziska Seidel and Prof. Dr Anja Hennemuth.