Constrictive Pericarditis

Others

Normal pericardium consists of 2 layers:outer tough fibrous & smooth innerlayer.In constrictive pericarditis this layers become inflamed,thickened & plasterd.This hinders blood flow into the heart & heart chambers lose distensibility.Cardiac output gradually reduces .The causes are Viral,Tubercular& bacterial,radiation etc.Apart from medical management excision of diseased pericardium(Pericardiectomy) helps in curing constrictive pericarditis

1) What Is Constrictive Pericarditis?

Ans: Constrictive pericarditis is a long-term inflammation of the covering of the heart (the pericardium) with thickening, scarring, and muscle tightening or contracture.

2) What Are Its Causes?

Ans: The common causes are:Heart Surgery,Tuberculosis & Radiation to chest.

3) What Are Its Symptoms & Signs?

Ans: Symptoms & signs of chronic constrictive pericarditis include:Difficulty in breathing which gradually gets worse, Fatigue, swelling of the legs ,Swollen abdomen & neck vein distension.

4) How Constrictive Pericarditis Is Diagnosed?

Ans: The physical exam along with the following investigations like Chest x-ray, ECG, Echocardiogram ,Chest MRI, Chest CT scan & Coronary angiography or cardiac catheterization will help to clinch the diagnosis.

5) What Are The Treatment Of Options?

Ans: The goal of treatment is to improve heart function.Medical management with ‘water pills’ or diuretics,low salt diet along with the medicine related to cause of pericarditis( Anti TB Drugs) is given.

Gallery

Left Lung Resection(Pneumonectomy)(CXR)