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Effusive-Constrictive Pericarditis

A rare but serious pericardial disease combining pericardial effusion with visceral pericardial constriction.

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 Effusive-Constrictive Pericarditis?

Effusive-constrictive pericarditis is a mixed pericardial disease in which fluid accumulation in the pericardial space coexists with thickening and stiffening of the visceral pericardium. Persistence of constrictive physiology after drainage of the fluid is the hallmark.

Common causes are idiopathic, tuberculosis, malignancy, radiation, connective tissue disease and prior cardiac surgery. Features of both tamponade and constrictive pericarditis are present clinically.

Diagnosis relies on echocardiography, cardiac catheterization (persistent elevated right atrial pressure after pericardiocentesis), MRI and CT. Treatment includes addressing the underlying cause, NSAIDs and colchicine, and pericardiectomy in most cases.

Symptoms

Progressive dyspnea
Exercise intolerance
Leg edema and ascites
Jugular venous distension
Fatigue
Chest discomfort
Hepatomegaly

Risk Factors

Tuberculosis
Previous cardiac surgery
Radiotherapy (especially mediastinal)
Connective tissue disease
Malignancy and metastasis
Chronic kidney disease
Previous idiopathic pericarditis

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • Persistent symptoms after pericardiocentesis
  • Recurrent pericardial effusion
  • Constrictive features
  • New leg edema and ascites
  • Unexplained dyspnea
  • Abnormal pericardial findings on echocardiography

Treatment Methods

01
Pericardiocentesis to drain effusion
02
NSAIDs and colchicine
03
Treatment of the underlying cause (TB, malignancy)
04
Pericardiectomy (definitive therapy)
05
Diuretic therapy
06
Corticosteroids in selected cases
07
Long-term cardiology follow-up

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.