What causes pericardium?
Usually, the cause of pericarditis is unknown, but may include: Infection by viruses, bacteria, a fungus, or parasites. Autoimmune disorder(such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or scleroderma. Inflammation after a heart attack.
What is the most common cause of a pericardial effusion?
Lung cancer is the most common cause of the malignant pericardial effusion. Trauma: Blunt, penetrating, and iatrogenic injury to the myocardium, aorta, or coronary vessels can lead to the accumulation of blood within the pericardial sac.
What fluid is in the pericardium?
Pericardial fluid is the serous fluid secreted by the serous layer of the pericardium into the pericardial cavity. The pericardium consists of two layers, an outer fibrous layer and the inner serous layer.
What does trivial pericardial effusion mean?
Pericardial effusion is the buildup of extra fluid in the space around the heart. If too much fluid builds up, it can put pressure on the heart. This can prevent it from pumping normally. A fibrous sac called the pericardium surrounds the heart.
What is a pericardium in the heart?
The pericardium is a membrane, or sac, that surrounds your heart. It holds the heart in place and helps it work properly. Problems with the pericardium include: Pericarditis – an inflammation of the sac.
What does trace pericardial effusion mean?
Trace amounts of pericardial fluid are often a physiologic finding and do not necessarily represent an underlying disease. However, many rheumatologic conditions can cause inflammation of the lining of the heart which could also lead to trace amounts of fluid.
What virus causes pericardial effusion?
The most common cause of infectious pericarditis and myocarditis is viral. Common etiologic organisms include coxsackievirus A and B, and hepatitis viruses. Other forms of infectious pericarditis include the following: Pyogenic – Pneumococci, streptococci, staphylococci, Neisseria, Legionella species.
What is pericardial effusion?
Listen to pronunciation. (PAYR-ih-KAR-dee-ul eh-FYOO-zhun) A condition in which extra fluid collects between the heart and the pericardium (the sac around the heart). The extra fluid causes pressure on the heart.
What happens if the pericardium is damaged?
The space between these layers typically contains a thin layer of fluid. But if the pericardium is diseased or injured, the resulting inflammation can lead to excess fluid. Fluid can also build up around the heart without inflammation, such as from bleeding, related to a cancer or after chest trauma.