Dressler's syndrome

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Dressler's syndrome is a secondary form of pericarditis that is classified as an immune system response after damage to heart tissue or to the pericardium, such as a heart attack, surgery, or traumatic injury. Symptoms include chest pain, which may be similar to chest pain experienced during a heart attack.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Dressler's syndrome is believed to be an immune system response following damage to heart tissue or the pericardium, such as a heart attack, surgery, or traumatic injury. The immune system may mistake the damaged heart tissue for a foreign substance and attack it, leading to inflammation and Dressler's syndrome.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

Symptoms of Dressler's syndrome may include:

  • Chest pain
  • Fatigue
  • Fever
  • Increased heart rate
  • Joint pain
  • Difficulty breathing

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of Dressler's syndrome may involve:

  • Medical history: The doctor may ask about recent surgeries, injuries, or illnesses.
  • Physical exam: The doctor may listen to the heart to check for abnormal sounds or rhythms.
  • Blood tests: These can help identify inflammation and possible heart damage.
  • Imaging tests: These may include a chest X-ray, echocardiogram, or cardiac MRI.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for Dressler's syndrome focuses on managing symptoms and reducing inflammation. It may include:

  • Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications
  • Prescription medications, such as colchicine or corticosteroids
  • In severe cases, surgery may be needed to relieve symptoms

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

With treatment, most people with Dressler's syndrome recover fully. However, the condition can return in some cases.

See also[edit | edit source]

Cardiovascular disease A-Z

Most common cardiac diseases

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD