Pericardial Disease - Constrictive Pericarditis

Question 1

What is Constrictive Pericarditis?

Answer 1

The upper limit of cardiac volume is constrained by the rigid pericardium, preventing normal cardiac filling, restricting ventricular volume, SV and CO.

Question 2

Pathophysiology of Constrictive Pericarditis.

Answer 2

Scarring and Loss of Elasticity of the Pericardial Sac.

Question 3

Aetiology of Constrictive Pericarditis (2).

Answer 3

1. Any Cause of Pericarditis.
2. Especially TB.

Question 4

Clinical Presentation of Constrictive Pericarditis (4).

Answer 4

1. Dyspnoea.
2. RHF - Elevated JVP (Prominent X and Y Descent), Ascites, Oedema, Hepatomegaly.
3. Pericardial Knock - Loud S3.
4. Kussmaul’s Sign.

Question 5

What is Kussmaul’s Sign?

Answer 5

Paradoxical rise in JVP with inspiration.

Question 6

What can a CXR show in Constrictive Pericarditis?

Answer 6

Pericardial calcification.