Bornholm Disease

What is Bornholm Disease

Bornholm disease is a viral infection of the intercostal muscles - those of the chest wall that join the ribs together. The lining of the lungs, the pleura, may also be affected.

What are the Symptoms of Bornholm Disease

The sudden onset of fever and pain occurs around four days after infection. During this incubation period, flu-like symptoms may be experienced.

Pain is usually felt in the chest or upper abdomen. It varies in intensity, but is often described as stabbing. The pain is spasmodic, lasting for 15 to 30 minutes at a time. Coughing, sneezing and sudden movements can make it worse.

The pain is felt on one side of the chest or abdomen, as well as the muscles of the neck and limbs. It usually lasts for up to four days.

The symptoms usually last about one to two days in children and about two to six days in adults. Sometimes, the pain and fever return after a day or two. On rare occasions, there are several recurrences of pain and fever over a period of three weeks or more.

Complications are rare, but include inflammation of the testes (orchitis) or the heart (pericarditis, myocarditis), and meningitis.

What are the Causes of Bornholm Disease

The infection is often caused by one of the group B coxsackie viruses, or group A coxsackie viruses and echoviruses. The disease is also known as epidemic pleurodynia.

Traditional Medical Treatments for Bornholm Disease

Painkillers and drugs can be used to reduce the fever. Heat therapy - placing a hot water bottle on the painful area - may help.

Intravenous immunoglobulin can be used to treat newborns or people with a weakened immune system.

Good hygiene and regular hand-washing can reduce the risk of contracting the infection.