The term pericardium is derived from the Greek prefix peri- (“around”) and kardia (“heart”), implying a structure that envelops or encloses the heart. Morphologically, the pericardium is a fluid ...

THE diagnosis of pericardial effusion and pericarditis is often difficult. The history and physical signs can be misleading, and the electrocardiogram is frequently equivocal. A high index of ...

The pericardium surrounds and protects the heart. When it becomes injured or infected, fluid can build up between its layers. Pericardial effusion, as the condition is called, strains the heart’s ...

From the Medical and Chest Services of Beth-El Hospital. Melvyn Leichtling, M.D. Resident in medicine, Beth-El Hospital. Harry B. Reibstein, M.D. Attending physician in chest diseases, Beth-El ...

Constrictive pericarditis is a rare disorder that occurs when the thin sac that surrounds and protects the heart becomes stiff and thick, limiting the heart’s ability to pump blood. Symptoms may ...

Pericardiocentesis, also called a pericardial tap, is a procedure in which a needle and catheter remove fluid from the pericardium, the sac around your heart. The fluid is tested for signs of ...

Cardiac tamponade occurs when a pericardial effusion exerts a significant amount of pressure externally on the heart, resulting in impaired right ventricular filling eventually causing decreased ...

Tuberculosis (TB) typically affects the lungs but can affect other body areas. If Mycobacterium tuberculosis — the bacteria that causes TB —infects the heart’s pericardium, it can lead to a condition ...

A 58-year-old woman presents to the hospital reporting fatigue, swelling of the legs and feet, and shortness of breath. She explains that her symptoms have been getting worse over the past 2 months.

A 37-year-old female yellow-naped Amazon parrot (Amazona auropalliata) was presented with a history of lethargy, inappetence, and decreased vocalizations. On examination, the coelom was moderately ...