What condition refers to inflammation within the heart?

The condition that refers specifically to inflammation within the heart is myocarditis. Myocarditis involves inflammation of the heart muscle, which can result from infections, autoimmune diseases, or exposure to certain chemicals or drugs. This inflammation can affect the heart’s ability to pump blood and may lead to other serious complications.

Pericarditis involves inflammation of the pericardium, the fibrous sac surrounding the heart. Endocarditis is inflammation of the inner lining of the heart cavities, often due to bacterial infection, and can also cause significant health issues. Cardiomyopathy refers to diseases of the heart muscle itself that can lead to heart failure, but does not specifically refer to inflammation. Thus, myocarditis is the correct term for inflammation within the heart muscle itself.