The term pericardium is derived from the Greek prefix peri- (“around”) and kardia (“heart”), implying a structure that envelops or encloses the heart. Morphologically, the pericardium is a fluid ...

The pericardium surrounds and protects the heart. When it becomes injured or infected, fluid can build up between its layers. Pericardial effusion, as the condition is called, strains the heart’s ...

The clinical diagnosis of acute pericarditis is based on simple criteria: typical chest pain, pericardial friction rub (Figure 2), widespread ST-segment elevation (Figure 3) and pericardial effusion ...

Pericardiocentesis, also called a pericardial tap, is a procedure in which a needle and catheter remove fluid from the pericardium, the sac around your heart. The fluid is tested for signs of ...

Constrictive pericarditis is a rare disorder that occurs when the thin sac that surrounds and protects the heart becomes stiff and thick, limiting the heart’s ability to pump blood. Symptoms may ...

Cardiac tamponade is a serious medical condition in which your heart can’t pump enough blood to your body due to fluid buildup around your heart. Seek medical help immediately if you or someone you ...

A 58-year-old woman presents to the hospital reporting fatigue, swelling of the legs and feet, and shortness of breath. She explains that her symptoms have been getting worse over the past 2 months.

Tuberculosis (TB) typically affects the lungs but can affect other body areas. If Mycobacterium tuberculosis — the bacteria that causes TB —infects the heart’s pericardium, it can lead to a condition ...

A 37-year-old female yellow-naped Amazon parrot (Amazona auropalliata) was presented with a history of lethargy, inappetence, and decreased vocalizations. On examination, the coelom was moderately ...