pericardial effusion and cardiac tamponade

Question 1

what is pericardial effusion

Answer 1

collection of fluid within the pericardial sac

Question 2

what does pericardial effusion usually accompany

Answer 2

pericarditis

Question 3

what is it called when a large volume collects in the space and ventricular filling is compromised

Answer 3

cardiac tamponade

Question 4

symptoms of pericardial effusion

Answer 4

• heart sounds are soft
• apex beat is obscured
• friction rub may be evident
• area of dullness to percuss
• raised JVP
• reduced cardiac output

Question 5

investigation

Answer 5

• ECG
• CXR
• echo
• cardiac CT
• pericardiocentesis
• biopsy

Question 6

what is seen on CXR

Answer 6

large, globular or pear shaped heart with sharp outlines

Question 7

what is the most useful investigation

Answer 7

echo

Question 8

what is pericardiocentesis

Answer 8

removal of pericardial fluid with an aseptic technique under echo guidance

Question 9

when is biopsy done

Answer 9

when tuberculosis is suspected

Question 10

what is done for treatment

Answer 10

underlying cause should be sought and treated if possible

Question 11

what is done to relieve pressure

Answer 11

pericardiocentesis

Question 12

when can pericardial effusion re-accumulate

Answer 12

due to malignancy