Constrctive Pericarditis

Question 1

What is constructive pericarditis?

Answer 1

A condition where the pericardium becomes stiff and thick due to chronic inflammation

Question 2

What are four ideologies of constructive pericarditis?

Answer 2

-idiopathic
-long term steroid use
-radiation therapy
-chronic pericarditis

Question 3

Fibrous and/or calcification of the pericardium with constructive pericarditis results in?

Answer 3

Restriction of ventricular filling

Question 4

What are two treatments for constrictive pericarditis?

Answer 4

-Right ventricle & left ventricle equalization of diastolic pressure by catheterization

• Pericardiectomy

Question 5

What are five physical signs of constructive pericarditis?

Answer 5

-Dyspena
-ascites
-Edema
-distended neck veins with the Kussmual sign
-pericardial knock

Question 6

What is the Kussumal sign?

Answer 6

Elevated venous pressures upon inspiration

Question 7

What murmur is associated with constrictive pericarditis?

Answer 7

Pericardial knock within early diastole

Question 8

True or false- constrictive pericarditis has normal LV systolic function

Answer 8

True

Question 9

True or false- constrictive pericarditis has bi ventricular enlargement

Answer 9

False- constrictive pericarditis has bi atrial enlargement because the ventricles cannot feel properly so all that flow backflows into the atrium 

Question 10

What are three echo signs of constrictive pericarditis?

Answer 10

• Septal shift/bounce with inspiration
  -early diastolic notching of the IVS
  -flat left ventricular posterior wall motion diastole 

Question 11

What regurg is usually present with constrictive pericarditis?

Answer 11

TR & MR