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Acute Pericarditis — Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnostic criteria for pericardial inflammation and anti-inflammatory therapy.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kardiyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Acute Pericarditis — Diagnosis and Treatment?

Acute pericarditis is inflammation of the pericardium, most often after viral infection. The diagnosis requires at least 2 of 4 criteria: characteristic chest pain, pericardial friction rub, ECG changes (widespread ST elevation and PR depression) and pericardial effusion.

Adding colchicine reduces recurrence by roughly 50%. NSAIDs combined with colchicine are first-line therapy. Complications include constrictive pericarditis and cardiac tamponade.

Symptoms

Sharp pleuritic chest pain that improves on leaning forward
Pericardial friction rub on auscultation
Diffuse ST elevation and PR depression on ECG
Fever and malaise

Risk Factors

Recent viral illness
Autoimmune disease
Renal failure (uremic pericarditis)
After cardiac surgery
Malignancy

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Chest pain plus friction rub or typical ECG changes
  • Suspected pericardial effusion
  • Tamponade signs (hypotension, raised jugular venous pressure)

Treatment Methods

01
NSAIDs (ibuprofen 600 mg three times daily or aspirin 750–1000 mg three times daily)
02
Colchicine 0.5 mg twice daily for three months to prevent recurrence
03
Gastric protection with a proton-pump inhibitor
04
Steroids reserved for NSAID/colchicine intolerance or contraindication
05
Activity restriction until symptoms resolve
06
Echocardiographic follow-up of any effusion

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kardiyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.