What is exudative pericardial effusion?
Exudative effusions are caused by an inflammatory or malignant process affecting the pleura, causing increased capillary permeability and fluid accumulation. Common causes of exu-dates include pneumonia, cancer, tuberculosis and pulmonary embolism.
How is pericardial fluid collected?
A sample of fluid is collected from the pericardial sac by a doctor with a syringe and needle using a procedure called a pericardiocentesis (see Common questions). This is usually done in a special laboratory under guidance by echocardiography or X-ray imaging and ECG monitoring.
What are the 2 most common bacteria seen in pericardial fluid effusion?
The most common bacteria to cause pericarditis are Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, and Pneumococcus.
Why is pericardial fluid collected?
Pericardial fluid analysis is used to help diagnose the cause of inflammation of the pericardium (pericarditis) and/or fluid accumulation around the heart (pericardial effusion). There are two main reasons for fluid accumulation: an imbalance of pressure within blood vessels or inflammation of the pericardium.
What is the manner of collection or the collection process of pericardial fluid?
Pericardial fluid is collected via pericardiocentesis or open surgical drainage.
Why LDH is high in exudate?
Consequently, an elevated pleural fluid LDH level in exudative pleural effusions (such as TPE and PPE), is indicative of lung or pleural tissue damage and endothelial injury [27]. Most patients with TPE show chronic granulomatous inflammation in pleural tissue, and infiltration of mononuclear cells and macrophages.
What is the difference between transudates and exudates?
“Transudate” is fluid buildup caused by systemic conditions that alter the pressure in blood vessels, causing fluid to leave the vascular system. “Exudate” is fluid buildup caused by tissue leakage due to inflammation or local cellular damage.
What drugs cause pleural effusion?
Drugs that result in an exudative pleural effusion include: hydralazine (as part of a lupus syndrome) nitrofurantoin. sulphonamides. methotrexate. practolol. methysergide.
What is the definition of pericardial fluid?
Medical Definition of pericardial fluid. : the serous fluid that fills the pericardial cavity and protects the heart from friction.
What is chronic pericardial effusion?
Pericardial effusion is the acute or chronic accumulation of fluid in the pericardial space (between the parietal and the visceral pericardium) and is often associated with a variety of underlying disorders. The fluid can be either bloody (e.g., following aortic dissection) or serous (usually idiopathic).
What is pericardial fluid analysis?
Pericardial fluid analysis comprises a group of tests used to determine the cause: red and white blood cell counts and differential, cytology, Gram stain, fungal culture and acid fast staining for tuberculosis.