Q: What is a pericardium?
A: Pericardium is a double layer sac that covers the heart. The pericardium is a protective covering for the heart.
Q: What are the consequences of an inflamed pericardium?
A: When the pericardium is inflamed, it results in a condition known as pericarditis. When the pericardium is inflamed, it exerts pressure on the heart causing intense chest pain.
Q: What are the causes of pericarditis?
A: The exact cause of pericarditis is unknown. Pericarditis may occur following a heart attack. Viruses, bacteria, and fungi may also cause pericarditis. Pericarditis may also result from an autoimmune response, eg, Dressler’s syndrome. Other disease conditions such as cancer, HIV, tuberculosis may also cause pericarditis.
Q: What are the 2 main types of pericarditis and their symptoms?
A: There are 2 main types of pericarditis: acute pericarditis and chronic pericarditis.
Q: What are the diagnostic tests for pericarditis?
A: The diagnostic tests for pericarditis are blood tests, electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiography, cardiac MRI, cardiac CT, and chest X-ray,
Q: What is pericardiectomy?
A: Pericardiectomy is the excision of the pericardium to treat a severe form of pericarditis, chronic constrictive pericarditis.
Q: What is pericardiocentesis?
A: Pericardiocentesis is a procedure that involves removing the excess fluid from the pericardial sac. Removal of the excess fluid reduces the pressure of the pericardium on the heart.
