constrictive pericarditis

Question 1

definition of constrictive pericarditis

Answer 1

the heart is encased in a rigid pericardium

Question 2

aetiology of constrictive pericarditis

Answer 2

often unknown

secondary to acute pericarditis

Question 3

epidemiology of constrictive pericarditis

Answer 3

The true prevalence of CP unknown

in 0.2-0.4% of patients who have undergone cardiac surgery

in <1% after idiopathic pericarditis

Question 4

sx of constrictive pericarditis

Answer 4

mainly of RHF

fatigue

jugular vein distension

Question 5

signs of constrictive pericarditis

Answer 5

• raised JVP - prominent x and y descents
• Kussmaul’s sign - JVP raise paradoxically with inspiration
• soft, diffuse apex beat
• quiet heart sounds
• S3
• diastolic pericardial knock
• hepatosplenomegaly
• ascites
• oedema

Question 6

Ix for constrictive pericarditis

Answer 6

CXR - small heart +- pericardial calcification

CT/MRI - helps distinguish from restrictive cardiomyopathy

echo

cardio catheterisation