Constrictive pericarditis
| Constrictive pericarditis | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Pericarditis – constrictive |
| Constrictive pericarditis is defined by a thickened pericardium and decreased elasticity | |
| Specialty | Cardiology |
| Symptoms | Fatigue, difficulty breathing |
| Causes | Tuberculosis, Idiopathic/viral |
| Diagnostic method | CT scan, MRI |
| Treatment | Anti-inflammatory medication, Surgery |
Constrictive pericarditis is a condition characterized by decreased elasticity and an increased thickening of the pericardium. These changes reduce the ability of the heart to fill with blood and can lead to symptoms of heart failure.
This condition may result from various disease processes which can have similar symptoms, and has been historically difficult to diagnose. Understanding the differing etiologies and disease processes is important as it can lead to a timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment.