Pericarditis is inflammation of the sac around the heart, called the pericardium. If pericarditis becomes chronic, it can lead to pericardial effusion. This is when the pericardium fills with fluid.

A pericardial effusion occurs when a significant amount of fluid fills the pericardial space. Individuals without pericardial effusion have a small amount of pericardial fluid (15 mL to 50 mL), which ...

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 ...