Constrictive pericarditis Flashcards Preview

Year 3: Cardio > Constrictive pericarditis > Flashcards

Flashcards in Constrictive pericarditis Deck (6)
Loading flashcards...
1
Q

define constrictive pericarditis?

A
  • chronic inflammation of the pericardium with thickening and scarring.
  • It limits the ability of the heart to function normally
2
Q

what are common causes of pericarditis?

A
Idiopathic
Virus
TB
Mediastinal irradiation
Post-surgical
Connective tissue disease
3
Q

what is the epidemiology of constrictive pericarditis?

A
  • it is RARE
  • seen in all ages
  • can be seen in cases of acute pericarditis
  • more common in males
  • common after TB
4
Q

what is the nature of onset of constrictive pericarditis?

A
  • gradual onset

- early signs can be very subtle

5
Q

what are the signs of advanced constrictive pericarditis?

A
Dyspnoea
Peripheral oedema
Raised JVP
Kussmaul's sign (paradoxical rise in JVP on inspiration)
Pulsatile hepatomegaly
jaundice 
cachexia
6
Q

what investigations should be carried out for constrictive pericarditis?

A

CXR - calcification of the pericardium
Echocardiogram
MRI- assesses thickness of pericardium
Pericardial biopsy- infective cause