Constrictive pericarditis Flashcards
1
Q
Define constrictive pericarditis
A
Chronic inflammation of the pericardium (outer sac) with thickening and scarring
1
Q
what are the causes of constrictive pericarditis?
A
- Idiopathic
- Infectious (TB, bacterial, viral)
- Acute pericarditis
- Cardiac surgery and radiation
2
Q
what are the signs and symptoms of constrictive pericarditis?
A
Similar to restrictive cardiomyopathy
- RHF presentation (raised JVP, oedema)
- Kussmaul’s sign
3
Q
what are the investigations for constrictive pericarditis?
A
- CXR: pericardial calcification
- Echo: increased pericardial thickness – differentiate from restrictive cardiomyopathy
- Cardiac CT/MRI
