Pericardial rub

Pericardial Rub

A Pericardial Rub is a medical condition characterized by an audible medical sign used in the diagnosis of pericarditis. It is a specific type of heart sound that is produced by the friction of the pericardial layers, the pericardium, due to inflammation or other pathological changes.

Definition

A pericardial rub is a characteristic sound, often described as a high-pitched, grating or scratching noise, heard through a stethoscope during auscultation of the heart. It is caused by the rubbing together of the inflamed layers of the pericardial sac surrounding the heart.

Causes

The most common cause of a pericardial rub is pericarditis, an inflammation of the pericardium. Other causes can include myocardial infarction, post-cardiac injury, and certain systemic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of a pericardial rub is primarily based on the characteristic sound heard during auscultation. The sound is typically best heard at the left lower sternal border with the patient leaning forward and holding their breath. Additional diagnostic tests may include an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, and cardiac MRI.

Treatment

Treatment of a pericardial rub focuses on addressing the underlying cause. This may involve anti-inflammatory medications for pericarditis, or more specific treatments for other underlying conditions. In severe cases, a pericardiectomy may be required to remove the inflamed pericardium.

See also

• Heart sounds
• Pericarditis
• Pericardium