Dressler

Dressler's syndrome is a secondary form of pericarditis that occurs in the setting of injury to the heart or the pericardium (the outer lining of the heart). Named after Dr. William Dressler, it is also known as post-myocardial infarction syndrome and is seen in the setting of myocardial infarction.

Symptoms

Dressler's syndrome is characterized by chest pain and a low grade fever. Other symptoms may include palpitations, light-headedness, and overall malaise.

Causes

The exact cause of Dressler's syndrome is unknown, but it is thought to be an immune system response following damage to heart tissue or the pericardium, such as a heart attack, surgery, or traumatic injury.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on the patient's medical history and the presence of symptoms. Tests may include an electrocardiogram (ECG), a chest X-ray, or an echocardiogram. Blood tests may also be done to check for signs of inflammation or a heart attack.

Treatment

Treatment usually involves aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). If these are ineffective or contraindicated, corticosteroids may be used. In severe cases, colchicine may be used to reduce inflammation.

Prognosis

With treatment, most people can fully recover from Dressler's syndrome, but it may take time. The condition itself is not life-threatening, but it can lead to complications, such as a pericardial effusion.

See also

• Pericarditis
• Myocardial infarction