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Constrictive Pericarditis

Restriction of cardiac diastolic filling caused by pericardial thickening, fibrosis and calcification.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

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 Constrictive Pericarditis?

Constrictive pericarditis develops when chronic inflammation renders the pericardium thickened, rigid and sometimes calcified, restricting diastolic filling of the heart. The pericardium loses its elastic properties and the ventricles cannot fill adequately.

Causes include viral pericarditis, tuberculosis, radiation, cardiac surgery, uremia and connective tissue diseases. Untreated disease progresses to chronic right-sided heart failure.

Diagnosis can be challenging, and differentiation from restrictive cardiomyopathy is crucial. Echocardiography, cardiac MRI and cardiac catheterization contribute to the diagnosis. Definitive treatment is surgical pericardiectomy.

Symptoms

Chronic dyspnea
Peripheral edema and ascites
Hepatomegaly and jaundice
Kussmaul sign
Jugular venous distension
Weight loss and cachexia
Pericardial knock

Risk Factors

Previous tuberculous pericarditis
Previous cardiac surgery
Chest wall radiotherapy
Uremia
Chronic viral pericarditis
Connective tissue diseases
Prior purulent pericarditis

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • Unexplained chronic right-sided heart failure
  • New symptoms after radiotherapy
  • Edema and ascites after a history of pericarditis
  • Hepatomegaly and abnormal liver function

Treatment Methods

01
Surgical pericardiectomy (definitive treatment)
02
Diuretic therapy for fluid balance
03
Dietary salt restriction
04
Treatment of the underlying condition
05
Anti-tuberculous therapy if tuberculosis is suspected
06
Early surgical referral

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.