Pericardial effusion

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(Redirected from Swinging heart)

Pericardial effusion is fluid buildup inside of the pericardium, affecting the performance of the heart.

Pericardial effusion with tamponade
Pericardial effusion with tamponade

Pathophysiology[edit | edit source]

  • In pericardial effusion, there is extra fluid collects between the heart and the pericardium (the sac around the heart).
  • The extra fluid causes pressure on the heart.
  • This keeps it from pumping blood normally.
  • Lymph vessels may also be blocked, which can cause infection.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Pericardial effusions may be caused by cancer or cancer treatment, infection, injury, autoimmune disorders, thyroid disease or kidney problems etc.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

Symptoms of pericardial effusion include chest pain, rapid heartbeat, and difficulty breathing. Fever is a common symptom of acute pericarditis.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis was with physical exam, imaging tests, and heart tests such as echocardiography to make a diagnosis.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment depends on the cause and may involve pericardiocentesis

Complications[edit | edit source]

If the pericardial effusion is severe, it can lead to a life threatening emergency called cardiac tamponade where the heart is compressed due to pressure of the fluid in the pericardial sac. Immediate medical attention is required in thi case.

Pericardial effusion Resources
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External links[edit | edit source]

Classification
External resources



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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD