1. In the Devil's Grip
Bornholm disease is the rather ominous name for a temporary viral infection that targets the upper respiratory system. Also known as pleurodynia (inflammation of the tissue lining of the lungs) or epidemic myalgia, it is most common in children. It is named after the Dutch island Bornholm, where the first cases of this illness were documented. It is also referred to as the "devil's grip" or "devil's grippe", due to the gripping nature one feels in the chest when suffering from this infection.
2. Spreadin' the Bad News
If someone you know has Bornholm disease, stay away! This viral infection is highly contagious. It can be spread by touching, saliva or feces. It's usually most transmissible in warmer weather or tropical climates. Infection occurs when a person comes into contact with an infected person or item and then puts his fingers in his mouth before washing them. Because of the contagious nature of this disease, it is often seen in clusters.
3. One Virus Leading to Another
The leading cause of Bornholm disease is a complication of B coxsackievirus, a part of the enterovirus family (enteroviruses being the second most common type of virus next to rhinoviruses or the "common cold" viruses). Coxsackieviruses are seen most often during late summer or early fall and can cause many symptoms ranging from rashes to hand-foot-mouth disease. There are approximately a half-dozen coxsackieviruses that lead to human illness, including aseptic meningitis, orchitis (inflammation of the testes) and myocarditis (viral infection of the heart).
4. The Aches and Pains of Bornhom's
Flu-like symptoms are common with Bornholm's disease, accompanied by fever and headache. The most obvious sign of this disease is intense pain (stabbing, cramping or severe) in the lower chest, upper abdomen and ribs due to the lining of the lungs being inflamed. This pain often worsens when you draw a deep breath or cough. Muscle soreness and tenderness may also be present around the ribs.
5. At Least It's Temporary
The good news? This viral infection generally lasts anywhere from three to 14 days, and it is almost never fatal (unless complications from other related issues, such as pericarditis--an inflammation around the heart--arise, but this is very rare). Anti-inflammatory medication, bed rest and warm compresses for tender rib muscles are used for treatment. Antibiotics are useless against Bornholm's disease because it is viral in nature.
