Subacute effusive-constrictive pericarditis

Chronic pericarditis and recurrent pericardial effusion of unknown origin in a kitten: a case report

A 3-month-old kitten was presented after successful cardiopulmonary resuscitation, including a presumed intracardial injection by its primary care veterinarian. Throughout the subsequent hospitalization in the intensive care unit, the cat exhibited recurrent hemorrhagic pericardial effusions, along with concurrent pleural and abdominal effusions, resulting in multiple clinical deteriorations, necessitating pericardiocentesis and thoracocentesis. Despite more than 3 days of intensive care, the cat experienced another cardiopulmonary arrest with unsuccessful attempts to achieve the return of spontaneous circulation. Necropsy and histopathological findings revealed diffuse chronic-active pericarditis and hemorrhagic pericardial effusion, a condition that has not been documented in the context of cardiopulmonary resuscitation or pericardiocentesis.

Subtotal Pericardiectomy and Epicardiectomy for Treatment of Septic Pericarditis and Constrictive Epicarditis in a Dog

A 1 yr old, 1.7 kg, spayed female Chihuahua was presented for respiratory distress and an enlarged cardiac silhouette as seen on thoracic radiographs. Echocardiogram revealed pericardial effusion and cardiac tamponade. Computed tomography revealed marked pleural and pericardial effusion, thickening of the pericardium caudally, and a mass along the mediastinum. Pericardial fluid obtained via pericardiocentesis showed suppurative inflammation with mixed anaerobic bacteria isolated on culture. Subtotal pericardiectomy and partial lung lobectomy was performed to treat septic pericarditis. Postoperative echocardiogram showed increased right-sided pressures consistent with constrictive epicarditis, and 10 days after surgery, the dog was re-presented for right-sided heart failure. An epicardectomy was performed. A definitive source of infection was not identified, although a penetrating foreign body (e.g., grass awn) was suspected. The dog recovered and 10 yr follow up revealed no evidence of constrictive pathology on echocardiogram. This case report demonstrates the successful treatment of septic pericarditis and constrictive epicarditis via subtotal pericardiectomy and epicardiectomy.

Multimodality Imaging of Constrictive Pericarditis: Pathophysiology and New Concepts

Purpose of Review

The unique pathophysiological changes of constrictive pericarditis (CP) can now be identified with better imaging modalities, thereby helping in its early diagnosis. Through this review, we outline the pathophysiology of CP and its translation into symptomology and various imaging findings which then are used for both diagnosis and guiding treatment options for CP.

Recent Findings

Multimodality imaging has provided us with the capability to recognize early stages of the disease and identify patients with a potential for reversibility and can be treated with medical management. Additionally, peri-procedural planning and prediction of post-operative complications has been made possible with the use of advanced imaging techniques.

Summary

Advanced imaging has the potential to play a greater role in identification of patients with reversible disease process and provide peri-procedural risk stratification, thereby improving outcomes for patients with CP.

A Rare Case of Effusive-Constrictive Pericarditis Caused by Streptococcus agalactiae: Emergency Surgical Treatment

A 70-year-old male patient was admitted to the emergency room in cardiac arrest. The patient was resuscitated and then referred to our cardiac surgery department, where he was diagnosed with suspected effusive constrictive pericarditis. A failed trial of TEE-guided pericardiocentesis led to the decision of surgical intervention. Sternotomy was performed and revealed pericardial thickening and very dense adhesions involving the pericardium and both pleurae, suggesting a neoplastic disease. An extensive pericardiectomy and bilateral pleural decortication were performed. After surgery, the patient improved significantly and was discharged from the intensive care unit 24 h later. Pericardial thickening, dense adhesions, the amount and color of pericardial fluid and the aspect of epicardial tissue increased our suspicion of neoplastic disease. Histological samples were sent to be analyzed immediately; a few days later, they were unexpectedly negative for any neoplastic disease but showed a group-B-hemolytic Streptococcus agalactiae infection, which causes pericarditis in extremely rare cases. Postoperatively, the patient, under intravenous antibiotic and anti-inflammatory therapy, remained asymptomatic and was discharged ten days after the surgery. At the three-month follow-up, transthoracic echocardiography showed a normal right and left ventricular function with no pericardial effusion.

Subacute effusive-constrictive pericarditis in a patient with COVID-19

We report the case of a previously healthy young woman, who developed a severe form of COVID-19 with massive pneumonia and acute pericarditis in whom constrictive physiology developed rapidly. To our knowledge, this represents the second reported case of SARS-CoV-2 constrictive pericarditis, a rare, but severe cardiac complication.

Multimodality imaging in pericardial diseases

With a rapidly growing spectrum, non-specific symptoms and overlapping etiologies, pericardial diseases can represent a real diagnostic challenge. Consequently, multimodality imaging has taken a front seat in the diagnosis and management of these conditions. Cardiac CT offers an excellent anatomical characterization of pericardial thickening, fat stranding and/or presence of calcifications. and is also the preferred modality to assess extra-cardiac structures. Active pericardial inflammation, edema and fibrosis comprise pericardial characterization using CMR and allows for a precise diagnosis, disease staging and patient specific tailoring of therapies. PET scan still occupies a very modest role in the evaluation of pericardial diseases, but might help discriminating malignant pericardial effusion and extra-pulmonary tuberculous. More than ever, clinicians need to master how these modalities complement each other while avoiding unnecessary cost and to translate this knowledge into a more customized patient's care approach. The aim of this review is to recognize the role of multimodality imaging in the investigation of various pericardial diseases, assess how these modalities can impact the clinical course and treatment of these affections and finally elucidate their role in the patient's prognostication.

Effusive-constrictive pericarditis in the spectrum of pericardial compressive syndromes

When pericardial fluid accumulates and exceed the reserve volume of the pericardium or when the pericardium becomes scarred and inelastic, one of three pericardial compressive syndromes may ensue, namely, cardiac tamponade (CT), characterised by the accumulation of pericardial fluid under pressure; constrictive pericarditis (CP), the result of scarring and loss of the normal elasticity of the pericardial sac; and effusive-constrictive pericarditis (ECP), characterised by the concurrence of a tense pericardial effusion and constriction of the heart by the visceral pericardium. Although relatively uncommon, prevalence estimates vary widely and depend on the nature of the cohorts studied, the methods used to diagnose ECP and the manner in which ECP is defined. Most cases of ECP are idiopathic, reflecting the frequency of idiopathic pericardial disease in general, and other causes include radiation, malignancy, chemotherapy, infection and postsurgical/iatrogenic pericardial disease. The diagnosis of ECP often becomes apparent when pericardiocentesis fails to decrease the right atrial pressure by 50% or to a level below 10 mm Hg. Important non-invasive diagnostic modalities include echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance and, to a lesser extent, cardiac CT. In cases with clear evidence of pericardial inflammation, a trial of an anti-inflammatory regimen is warranted. A complete pericardiectomy should be reserved for refractory symptoms or clinical evidence of chronic CP.

Chronic Effusive Pericarditis and Chronic Constrictive Pericarditis

Chronic Pericarditis is inflammation that begins gradually, is long lasting and results in fluid accumulation in the pericardial space or thickening of the pericardium. The etiology is unknown but may be cancer, TB or hypothyroidism. Arrhythmias are common and seen in almost half the patients. The commonest arrhythmia is atrial fibrillation. Symptoms and signs are related to increased right atrial pressure and physical findings include elevated JVP and pericardial knock. Non surgical therapy consists mainly of no salt. Surgery cures about 85% of patients, however 5‐15% of patients will die. Chronic effusive pericarditis occurs when there is persistent restriction of the visceral pericardium after pericardiocentesis.

Effusive-Constrictive Pericarditis: Doppler Findings

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review the echo-Doppler findings in effusive-constrictive pericarditis (ECP). ECP corresponds to the coexistence of a hemodynamically significant pericardial effusion and markedly reduced compliance of the pericardium, manifested by constrictive physiology post-pericardiocentesis.

RECENT FINDINGS

We summarize herein the recent observations regarding the prevalence of ECP based on echocardiography as well as the pre- and post-pericardiocentesis echo-Doppler features of ECP. ECP diagnosed by echocardiography was seen in approximately 15% of patients with ECP pre- and post-pericardiocentesis echo-Doppler findings sharing features with both cardiac tamponade and constrictive pericarditis. ECP post-pericardiocentesis is common but its natural history in the current era might be better than previously reported. Further studies and (particularly simultaneous echocardiography-cardiac catheterization) are still critically needed to better understand the underlying hemodynamics of ECP. Moreover, it remains to be determined whether pre- and post-pericardiocentesis echo-Doppler findings can be used to prognosticate or to guide therapy of those undergoing pericardiocentesis.

[Management of pericarditis and pericardial effusion, constrictive and effusive-constrictive pericarditis]

This CME review takes stock of the progress in the etiology, pathophysiology, diagnostics and treatment of pericarditis and pericardial effusion brought about by the publication of the 2nd European Society of Cardiology (ESC) guidelines on the management of pericardial diseases in 2015. It also emphasizes special forms, which have received less attention in the past, such as therapy-refractory (incessant), effusive-constrictive and constrictive pericarditis and the treatment of acute and recurrent pericarditis with colchicine. After the diagnosis of pericarditis with or without effusion has been made, the first step is to clarify its etiology, which affects the clinical symptoms, course, treatment and the prognosis. In this aspect the requirements of the guidelines and the reality of an etiological classification of pericardial diseases diverge in many cases. The diagnosis of "idiopathic" acute or recurrent pericarditis is still much too often the result of insufficient efforts to find the cause. Too often only malignant and bacterial forms are excluded. If the etiology is known local intrapericardial treatment with the already inserted pigtail catheter from the diagnostic pericardial puncture can be carried out with few systemic side effects. The 2015 ESC guidelines recommend colchicine as first line treatment in all forms of pericarditis except for neoplastic pericardial effusion. It accelerates healing and reduces the frequency of recurrence of pericarditis but cannot eliminate recurrence completely. The best treatment and prevention of recurrence is the eradication of the underlying etiological cause.

Invited Article: Emerging soft bioelectronics for cardiac health diagnosis and treatment

Cardiovascular diseases are among the leading causes of death worldwide. Conventional technologies for diagnosing and treating lack the compliance and comfort necessary for those living with life-threatening conditions. Soft electronics presents a promising outlet for conformal, flexible, and stretchable devices that can overcome the mechanical mismatch that is often associated with conventional technologies. Here, we review the various methods in which electronics have been made flexible and stretchable, to better interface with the human body, both externally with the skin and internally with the outer surface of the heart. Then, we review soft, wearable, noninvasive heart monitors designed to be attached to the chest or other parts of the body for mechano-acoustic and electrophysiological sensing. A common method of treatment for various abnormal heart rhythms involves catheter ablation procedures and we review the current soft bioelectronics that can be placed on the balloon or head of the catheter. Cardiac mapping is integral to determine the state of the heart; we discuss the various parameters for sensing aside from electrophysiological sensing, such as temperature, pH, strain, and tactile sensing. Finally, we review the soft devices that harvest energy from the natural and spontaneous beating of the heart by converting its mechanical motion into electrical energy to power implants.

The waffle procedure as treatment of a first episode of right heart failure: a case report

Background

Constrictive pericarditis is a rare condition which is characterized by pericardial layers thickening and it may not be relieved by conventional medical or surgical therapies. Some patients could profit from specific surgical techniques such as the waffle procedure which removes epicardial tissue strips of the visceral layer of the pericardium. It alleviates diastolic dysfunction, since it is known that the constrictive physiology observed in constrictive pericarditis depends mainly on the visceral layer.

Case summary

We describe the case of a 59-year-old male complaining of predominantly right heart failure symptoms. Initially, a transthoracic echocardiogram showed pericardial effusion with several fibrous tracts and a constrictive pattern. The work-up was completed with thoracic computed tomography and right heart catheterization along with several microbiological, serological and immunological tests. The final diagnosis was idiopathic constrictive pericarditis. The clinical course was unfavourable, and the patient was referred for prompt surgical treatment using a technique called the waffle procedure. Subsequently, the patient has remained asymptomatic.

Discussion

Constrictive pericarditis combines features of both constriction and tamponade. Some patients may present an unfavourable clinical course with conventional therapeutic approaches. They could benefit from the waffle procedure which allows an improvement in diastolic and, subsequently, in systolic function.

Effusive-Constrictive Pericarditis

Effusive-constrictive pericarditis (ECP) corresponds to the coexistence of a hemodynamically significant pericardial effusion and decreased pericardial compliance. The hallmark of ECP is the persistence of elevated right atrial pressure postpericardiocentesis. The prevalence of ECP seems higher in tuberculous pericarditis and lower in idiopathic cases. The diagnosis of ECP is traditionally based on invasive hemodynamics but the presence of echocardiographic features of constrictive pericarditis post-pericardiocentesisis can also identify ECP. Data on the prognosis and optimal treatment of ECP are still limited. Anti-inflammatory agents should be the first line of treatment. Pericardiectomy should be reserved for refractory cases.

Pericardial Effusion and Compressive Disorders of the Heart: Influence of New Technology on Unraveling its Pathophysiology and Hemodynamics

Constrictive pericarditis and cardiac tamponade cause severe diastolic dysfunction, but do not depress systolic function until the agonal state has been reached. Multimodality cardiovascular imaging has brought the nuances of pericardial disease to the domain of the practicing cardiologist. This introduction is a revised article originally written by the late Dr Shabetai for a pericardial diseases textbook which was not published. He was the editor of previous Pericardial Diseases issue for Cardiology Clinics in the 1980s, it is most appropriate to begin our issue with his insights. The remaining articles describe advances in diagnosis and management, focusing on clinically important aspects of pericardial diseases.

Subacute effusive-constrictive pericarditis: Echocardiography-guided diagnosis and management

A 49-year-old man presented with flu-like symptoms of two weeks. Electrocardiogram showed diffuse ST elevation. Blood samples revealed severe renal failure and moderate inflammatory results. Echocardiogram showed large pericardial effusion, dilated inferior vena cava, but no right ventricular collapse. The patient underwent hemodialysis, after which he developed clinical signs of cardiac tamponade with echocardiographic features of collapse of the right ventricle. Pericardial drainage was then performed revealing purulent fluid of 800 ml. Streptococcus agalactiae was found in the cultures of urine, blood, and pericardial fluid. Despite removal of the pericardial fluid, echocardiogram failed to show any improvement in dilated inferior vena cava and estimated right atrial pressure remained elevated. Thus, a diagnosis of subacute effusive-constrictive pericarditis was made. Following antibiotic treatment for purulent pericarditis, early pericardiectomy was performed under transesophageal echocardiographic monitoring which successfully guided surgeons to careful removal of thick and adhesive visceral pericardium as well as an additional Waffle procedure resulting in significant clinical and hemodynamic improvement. Echo-guided approach is most practical in establishing the diagnosis of effusive-constrictive pericarditis and also most helpful in obtaining successful surgical results. <Learning objective: Diagnosis of effusive-constrictive pericarditis is difficult and is not often made because of mixtures of clinical findings associated with effusion/tamponade and constriction. Echo-guided approach is most practical in establishing the diagnosis by detecting absence of normalization in dilatation of the inferior vena cava after pericardial drainage. Also, since careful removal of visceral pericardium is mandatory, transesophageal echocardiographic monitoring during pericardiectomy plays an essential role in obtaining successful surgical results.>.

Tuberculosis and the Heart

Owing to the high prevalence of tuberculosis (TB) and human immunodeficiency virus/AIDS, tuberculous heart disease remains an important problem in TB endemic areas. In this review, we reiterate salient aspects of the traditional understanding and approach to its management, and provide important updates on the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment garnered over the past decade of focused clinical and basic science research. We emphasize that, if implemented widely, these improved evidence-based approaches to the disease can build on the early progress made in treating tuberculous heart disease and help further the goal of significantly reducing its historically high morbidity and mortality.

Redefining Effusive-Constrictive Pericarditis with Echocardiography

Background

Effusive-constrictive pericarditis (ECP) is traditionally diagnosed by using the expensive and invasive technique of direct pressure measurements in the pericardial space and the right atrium. The aim of this study was to assess the diagnostic role of echocardiography in tuberculous ECP.

Methods

Intrapericardial and right atrial pressures were measured pre- and post-pericardiocentesis, and right ventricular and left ventricular pressures were measured post-pericardiocentesis in patients with tuberculous pericardial effusions. Echocardiography was performed post-pericardiocentesis. Traditional, pressure-based diagnostic criteria were compared with post-pericardiocentesis systolic discordance and echocardiographic evidence of constriction.

Results

Thirty-two patients with tuberculous pericardial disease were included. Sixteen had ventricular discordance (invasively measured), 16 had ECP as measured by intrapericardial and right atrial invasive pressure measurements and 17 had ECP determined echocardiographically. The sensitivity and specificity of pressure-guided measurements (compared with discordance) for the diagnosis of ECP were both 56%. The positive and negative predictive values were both 56%. The sensitivity of echocardiography (compared with discordance) for the diagnosis of ECP was 81% and the specificity 75%, while the positive and the negative predictive values were 76% and 80%, respectively.

Conclusion

Echocardiography shows a better diagnostic performance than invasive, pressure-based measurements for the diagnosis of ECP when both these techniques are compared with the gold standard of invasively measured systolic discordance.

Pericardial Disease in the Intensive Care Setting

Pericardial disease commonly occurs in the intensive care setting, but its timely diagnosis may be missed. The normal pericardium serves as a lubricated sac within which the heart may beat with minimal friction. The effect of the pericardium on cardiac filling at normal diastolic pressures is not clear; however, it may limit cardiac dilation in states of acute volume overload such as mitral regurgitation and right ventricular infarction.

Pericardial disease may be divided into two catego ries : those cases that result from inflammation of the pericardium (pericarditis), and those cases in which a pericardial effusion or the thickened pericardium itself causes hemodynamic changes (tamponade and constric tion). Simple pericarditis should not lead to any hemo dynamic alteration other than tachycardia. In both tam ponade and constriction, the jugular venous pressure is elevated with low forward cardiac output; tamponade typically shows pulsus paradoxus, whereas constric tion more frequently shows Kussmaul's sign.

The electrocardiogram may show diffuse ST segment elevation with PR segment depression in pericarditis; a large pericardial effusion, even with early tamponade, may not by itself cause any changes in the electrocar diogram. The echocardiogram is invaluable in diagnos ing the presence of a pericardial effusion and recogniz ing tamponade physiology (diastolic collapse of the right ventricular outflow tract and invagination of the right atrium).

In selected patients, simple pericarditis may be managed outside of the hospital. Anyone suspected of having a hemodynamically significant pericardial effu sion should be hospitalized, usually in an intensive care unit. Pericardiocentesis should be performed under op timal monitoring conditions, although in an emergency, blind pericardiocentesis may be attempted. Recognition of the cause of the pericardial process will guide its treatment. Management of selected pericardial syn dromes is discussed later in this review.

Materials and fractal designs for 3D multifunctional integumentary membranes with capabilities in cardiac electrotherapy

Advanced materials and fractal design concepts form the basis of a 3D conformal electronic platform with unique capabilities in cardiac electrotherapies. Fractal geometries, advanced electrode materials, and thin, elastomeric membranes yield a class of device capable of integration with the entire 3D surface of the heart, with unique operational capabilities in low power defibrillation. Co-integrated collections of sensors allow simultaneous monitoring of physiological responses. Animal experiments on Langendorff-perfused rabbit hearts demonstrate the key features of these systems.

Cardiac tamponade due to low-volume effusive constrictive pericarditis in a patient with uncontrolled type II autoimmune polyglandular syndrome

Type II autoimmune polyglandular syndrome (APS), a relatively common endocrine disorder, includes primary adrenal insufficiency coupled with type 1 diabetes mellitus and/or autoimmune primary hypothyroidism. Autoimmune serositis, an associated disease, may present as symptomatic pericardial effusion. We present a case of a 54-year old male with APS who developed pericarditis leading to cardiac tamponade with a subacute loculated effusion. After urgent pericardiocentesis intrapericardial pressure dropped to 0, while central venous pressures remain elevated, consistent with acute effusive constrictive pericarditis. Contrast computerized tomography confirmed increased pericardial contrast enhancement. The patient recovered after prolonged inotropic support and glucocorticoid administration. He re-accumulated the effusion 16 days later, requiring repeat pericardiocentesis. Effusive-constrictive pericarditis, an uncommon pericardial syndrome, is characterized by simultaneous pericardial inflammation and tamponade. Prior cases of APS associated with cardiac tamponade despite low volumes of effusion have been reported, albeit without good demonstration of hemodynamic findings. We report a case of APS with recurrent pericardial effusion due to pericarditis and marked hypotension with comprehensive clinical and hemodynamic assessment. These patients may require aggressive support with pericardiocentesis, inotropes, and hormone replacement therapy. They should be followed closely for recurrent tamponade.

3D multifunctional integumentary membranes for spatiotemporal cardiac measurements and stimulation across the entire epicardium

Means for high-density multiparametric physiological mapping and stimulation are critically important in both basic and clinical cardiology. Current conformal electronic systems are essentially 2D sheets, which cannot cover the full epicardial surface or maintain reliable contact for chronic use without sutures or adhesives. Here we create 3D elastic membranes shaped precisely to match the epicardium of the heart via the use of 3D printing, as a platform for deformable arrays of multifunctional sensors, electronic and optoelectronic components. Such integumentary devices completely envelop the heart, in a form-fitting manner, and possess inherent elasticity, providing a mechanically stable biotic/abiotic interface during normal cardiac cycles. Component examples range from actuators for electrical, thermal and optical stimulation, to sensors for pH, temperature and mechanical strain. The semiconductor materials include silicon, gallium arsenide and gallium nitride, co-integrated with metals, metal oxides and polymers, to provide these and other operational capabilities. Ex vivo physiological experiments demonstrate various functions and methodological possibilities for cardiac research and therapy.

Effusive-constrictive pericarditis

Effusive-constrictive pericarditis (ECP) is an increasingly recognized clinical syndrome. It has been best characterized in patients with tamponade who continue to have elevated intracardiac pressure after the removal of pericardial fluid. The disorder is due to pericardial inflammation causing constriction in conjunction with the presence of pericardial fluid under pressure. The etiology is diverse with similar causes to constrictive pericarditis and the condition is more prevalent with certain etiologies such as tuberculous pericarditis. The diagnosis is most accurately made using simultaneous intrapericardial and right atrial pressure measurements with pericardiocentesis, although non-invasive Doppler hemodynamic assessment can assess residual hemodynamic findings of constriction following pericardiocentesis. The clinical presentation has considerable overlap with other pericardial syndromes and as yet there are no biomarkers or non-invasive findings that can accurately predict the condition. Identifying patients with ECP therefore requires a certain index of clinical suspicion at the outset, and in practice, a proportion of patients may be identified once there is objective evidence for persistent atrial pressure elevation after pericardiocentesis. Although a significant number of patients will require pericardiectomy, a proportion of patients have a predominantly inflammatory and reversible pericardial reaction and may improve with the treatment of the underlying cause and the use of anti-inflammatory medications. Patients should therefore be observed for the improvement on these treatments for a period, whenever possible, before advocating pericardiectomy. Imaging modalities identifying ongoing pericardial inflammation such as contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging or nuclear imaging may identify those subsets more likely to respond to medical therapies. Pericardiectomy, if necessary, requires removal of the visceral pericardium.

Prevalence, hemodynamics, and cytokine profile of effusive-constrictive pericarditis in patients with tuberculous pericardial effusion

Background

Effusive constrictive pericarditis (ECP) is visceral constriction in conjunction with compressive pericardial effusion. The prevalence of proven tuberculous ECP is unknown. Whilst ECP is distinguished from effusive disease on hemodynamic grounds, it is unknown whether effusive-constrictive physiology has a distinct cytokine profile. We conducted a prospective study of prevalence and cytokine profile of effusive-constrictive disease in patients with tuberculous pericardial effusion.

Methods

From July 2006 through July 2009, the prevalence of ECP and serum and pericardial levels of inflammatory cytokines were determined in adults with tuberculous pericardial effusion. The diagnosis of ECP was made by combined pericardiocentesis and cardiac catheterization.

Results

Of 91 patients evaluated, 68 had tuberculous pericarditis. The 36/68 patients (52.9%; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 41.2-65.4) with ECP were younger (29 versus 37 years, P=0.02), had a higher pre-pericardiocentesis right atrial pressure (17.0 versus 10.0 mmHg, P<0.0001), serum concentration of interleukin-10 (IL-10) (38.5 versus 0.2 pg/ml, P<0.001) and transforming growth factor-beta (121.5 versus 29.1 pg/ml, P=0.02), pericardial concentration of IL-10 (84.7 versus 20.4 pg/ml, P=0.006) and interferon-gamma (2,568.0 versus 906.6 pg/ml, P=0.03) than effusive non-constrictive cases. In multivariable regression analysis, right atrial pressure > 15 mmHg (odds ratio [OR] = 48, 95%CI: 8.7-265; P<0.0001) and IL-10 > 200 pg/ml (OR=10, 95%CI: 1.1, 93; P=0.04) were independently associated with ECP.

Conclusion

Effusive-constrictive disease occurs in half of cases of tuberculous pericardial effusion, and is characterized by greater elevation in the pre-pericardiocentesis right atrial pressure and pericardial and serum IL-10 levels compared to patients with effusive non-constrictive tuberculous pericarditis.

Surgical management of effusive constrictive pericarditis

Background

The surgical approach for effusive constrictive pericarditis (ECP) has not been extensively studied. We present our institution’s early and long-term results of pericardiectomy in our cohort of patients with ECP.

Methods

Diagnosis was made primarily by echocardiography. Right heart catheterisation was performed in eight patients. Pre-operatively, 10 patients had undergone at least one previous attempt at therapeutic pericardiocentesis. Pericardiectomy was performed where appropriate (thickened or inflamed).

Results

Of our 12 patients (50% male, median age 48 years, range 17–72 years), the underlying aetiology included idiopathic in five (41.6%), tuberculosis in four (33%), and malignancy in three patients (25%). Elective surgery was performed in nine patients. Median values of both central venous pressure and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure decreased markedly postoperatively (from 16.5 to 11.0 mmHg, p = 0.02; 20.0–15.0 mmHg, p = 0.01, respectively). There was no in-hospital mortality. Follow up ranged from three months to nine years (median three years). Five (41.6%) patients died during the follow-up period, and cumulative two-year survival was 55.6 ± 1.5%.

Conclusion

Pericardiectomy for ECP was effective, in terms of our early results, in patients unresponsive to medical therapy. Long-term survival depends on the underlying disease.

New development of cardiac tamponade on underlying effusive-constrictive pericarditis: an uncommon initial presentation of scleroderma

A 40-year-old man with a medical history of hypertension was admitted for weight loss, generalised weakness, joint pains and mottling of fingertips. The initial laboratory data revealed microangiopathic haemolytic anaemia, thrombocytopenia and acute renal failure. Intravenous steroids were started for possible diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus based on admission assessment. Intravenous immunoglobulin and plasmapharesis were subsequently added to the treatment plan to cover thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura while his autoimmune panel was pending. The echocardiogram study on day 2 revealed cardiac tamponade for which he underwent pericardiocentesis and right heart catheterisation. The atrial waveforms postpericardiocentesis demonstrated effusive-constrictive pericarditis. His clinical condition kept on deteriorating with reaccumulation of pericardial effusion and further complicated by hemoperitoneum and colonic obstruction. He had cardiorespiratory arrest on his fourth admission day and was not revived. Anti-Scl-70 antibody came back positive. Autopsy findings confirmed the presence of fibrinous pericarditis and hemoperitoneum.

Tuberculous pericarditis with and without HIV

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has altered the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, treatment considerations and natural history of tuberculous (TB) pericarditis with significant implications for clinicians. The caseload of TB pericarditis has risen sharply in TB endemic areas of the world where co-infection with HIV is common. Furthermore, TB is the cause in greater than 85 % of cases of pericardial effusion in HIV-infected cohorts. In the absence of HIV, the morbidity of TB pericarditis is primarily related to the ferocity of the immune response to TB antigens within the pericardium. In patients with HIV, because TB pericarditis more often occurs as part of a disseminated process, the infection itself has a greater impact on the morbidity and mortality. HIV-associated TB pericarditis is a more aggressive disease with a greater degree of myocardial involvement. Patients have larger pericardial effusions with more frequent hemodynamic compromise and more significant ST segment changes in the electrocardiogram. HIV alters the natural history and outcomes of TB pericarditis. Immunocompromised participants appear less likely to develop constrictive pericarditis and have a significantly higher mortality compared with their immunocompetent counterparts. Finally co-infection with HIV has resulted in a number of areas of uncertainty. The mechanisms of myocardial dysfunction are unclear, new methods of improving the yield of TB culture and establishing a rapid bacterial diagnosis remain a major challenge, the optimal duration of anti-TB therapy has yet to be established, and the role of corticosteroids has yet to be resolved.

Cardiac complications of thoracic irradiation

Adjuvant radiation therapy in the management of early stage breast cancer, Hodgkin's disease, and to a lesser extent other thoracic malignancies has led to a significant improvement in disease-specific survival. Cardiovascular disease is now the most common nonmalignancy cause of death in radiation-treated cancer survivors, most often occurring decades after treatment. The spectrum of radiation-induced cardiac disease is broad, potentially involving any component of the heart. The relative risk of coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, valvular heart disease, pericardial disease, conduction abnormalities, and sudden cardiac death is particularly increased. Over the years contemporary techniques have been introduced to reduce cardiac morbidity and mortality in radiation-treated cancer survivors; however, the long-term effects on the heart still remain unclear, mandating longer follow-up. Awareness and early identification of potential cardiac complications is crucial in cancer survivors, with the management often being quite complex. This review examines the epidemiology of radiation-induced cardiac disease together with its pathophysiology and explores the available treatment strategies and the potential utility of various screening strategies for affected cancer survivors.

Presentation pattern and management of effusive-constrictive pericarditis in Ibadan

Background

Effusive–constrictive pericarditis is a syndrome in which constriction by the visceral pericardium occurs in the presence of a dense effusion in a free pericardial space. Treatment of this disease is problematic because pericardiocentesis does not relieve the impaired filling of the heart and surgical removal of the visceral pericardium is challenging. We sought to provide further information by addressing the evolution and clinico-pathological pattern, and optimal surgical management of this disease.

Methods

We conducted a prospective review of a consecutive series of five patients managed in the cardiothoracic surgery unit of University College Hospital, Ibadan, in the previous year, along with a general overview of other cases managed over a seven-year period. This was followed by an extensive literature review with a special focus on Africa.

Results

The diagnosis of effusive–constrictive pericarditis was established on the basis of clinical findings of features of pericardial disease with evidence of pericardial effusion, and echocardiographic finding of constrictive physiology with or without radiological evidence of pericardial calcification. A review of our surgical records over the previous seven years revealed a prevalence of 13% among patients with pericardial disease of any type (11/86), 22% of patients presenting with effusive pericardial disease (11/50) and 35% who had had pericardiectomy for constrictive pericarditis (11/31). All five cases in this series were confirmed by a clinical scenario of non-resolving cardiac impairment despite adequate open pericardial drainage. They all improved following pericardiectomy.

Conclusion

Effusive–constrictive pericarditis as a subset of pericardial disease deserves closer study and individualisation of treatment. Evaluating patients suspected of having the disease affords clinicians the opportunity to integrate clinical features and non-invasive investigations with or without findings at pericardiostomy, to derive a management plan tailored to each patient. The limited number of patients in this series called for caution in generalisation. Hence our aim was to increase the sensitivity of others to issues raised and help spur on further collaborative studies to lay down guidelines with an African perspective.

Advanced effusive-constrictive pericarditis rescued by the aggressive waffle procedure

We report the case of a 68-year-old man with progressive heart failure due to effusive-constrictive pericarditis. During approximately 1 month, echocardiography revealed rapid progression from pericarditis with effusion without tamponade to pericardial thickening and diastolic dysfunction. Cardiac catheterization revealed that the pressure in the right heart chambers remained high after pericardiocentesis. The patient was rescued by aggressive pericardiectomy and sharp dissection of the epicardium into small fragments. This on-pump beating-heart surgery is known as the waffle procedure.

Effusive-constrictive pericarditis post surgical revision for iatrogenic hemopericardium

AIM

A case report of subacute effusive-constrictive pericarditis in a patient with iatrogenic hemopericardium is presented.

METHODS

A 69-year-old man was referred to our department for percutaneous coronary intervention complicated with hemopericardium with cardiac tamponade. Continuous bleeding after pericardiocentesis required an urgent surgical revision with evacuation of hemopericardium and local treatment of the sources of bleeding. A mild to moderate pericardial effusion persisted in the post-operative period, without any symptoms of cardiac tamponade. A global heart failure developed in the patient eleven months after complicated coronary intervention (surgical revision). A technically successful pericardiocentesis did not improve the clinical state of the patient. Echocardiography and magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the diagnosis of effusive-constrictive pericarditis.

RESULTS

Subsequent pericardiectomy resulted in a prompt and complete relief of symptoms and signs of heart failure.

CONCLUSION

Effusive-constrictive pericarditis is an uncommon disorder characterised by symptoms of refractory cardiac failure, thickening of the visceral pericardium and pericardial effusion, with no improvement after pericardiocentesis. In indicated cases, pericadiectomy leads to recovery in a large percentage of patients.

A girl with right heart failure related to effusive-constrictive pericarditis

Effusive-constrictive pericarditis is characterized by constriction of visceral pericardium with a coexisting tense pericardial effusion. We report a 10-year-old girl with right heart failure due to effusive-constrictive pericarditis. She did not present typical features, such as cardiac tamponade or thickening of pericardium (visceral and parietal), but constrictive physiology was observed by echocardiography and cardiac computed tomography. These noninvasive imaging modalities provided clinical clues to make precise diagnosis. The patient underwent surgical drainage of pericardial fluid and visceral pericardiectomy, which resulted in improved hemodynamics and symptoms.

Rare concurrence of apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and effusive constrictive pericarditis

A 78-year-old man with a history of pulmonary tuberculosis was referred for preoperative evaluation of cardiac function. Echocardiography and cardiac cine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) indicated apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a thickened visceral pericardium, and a large pericardial effusion. Cardiac late gadolinium-enhanced MRI revealed pericardial inflammation or fibrosis. Apical HCM with concurrent effusive constrictive pericarditis was diagnosed. Further studies are required to elucidate the pathophysiology of this condition.

A 63-year-old woman with a pericardial effusion, bilateral pleural effusions, and ascites: is the whole greater than the sum of its parts?

A 63-year-old female presented with dyspnea, leg edema, and abdominal distention. Exam revealed blood pressure of 104/58, pulse 108/min, jugular venous pressure of 8 cm, no pulsus paradoxus, a pericardial rub, muffled heart sounds, decreased basilar breath sounds, ascites, and ankle edema. Electrocardiogram showed low voltage. Imaging revealed thickened pericardium and a pericardial effusion. Hemodynamic tracings postpericardiocentesis revealed elevated right-sided pressures. The patient was diagnosed with effusive constrictive pericarditis. The case and review of this condition are described. Patients with a pericardial effusion and symptoms unresponsive to pericardiocentesis or with pericardial thickening should undergo evaluation for effusive-constrictive pericarditis.

Multimodality imaging of pericardial diseases

Pericardial disease is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with cardiovascular disease. Inflammatory diseases of the pericardium constitute a spectrum ranging from acute pericarditis to chronic constrictive pericarditis. Other important entities that involve the pericardium include benign and malignant pericardial masses, pericardial cysts, and diverticula, as well as congenital absence of the pericardium. Recent advances in multimodality noninvasive cardiac imaging have solidified its role in the management of patients with suspected pericardial disease. The physiologic and structural information obtained from transthoracic echocardiography and the anatomic detail provided by cardiac computed tomography and magnetic resonance have led to growing interest in the complementary use of these techniques. Optimal management of the patient with suspected pericardial disease requires familiarity with the key imaging modalities and the ability to choose the appropriate imaging tests for each patient. This report reviews the imaging modalities most useful in the assessment of patients with pericardial disease, with an emphasis on the complementary value of multimodality cardiac imaging.

[Restrictive cardiomyopathy versus constrictive pericarditis in patients with diastolic dysfunction: MR imaging features]

Restrictive cardiomyopathies are characterized by diastolic dysfunction while systolic function is usually preserved. MRI is helpful by its ability to characterize tissues, especially the demonstration of interstitial or nodular fibrosis based on the underlying etiology. In the presence of constrictive pericarditis from pericardial inflammation, fibrosis or calcifications, diastolic expansion is impaired resulting in poor diastolic ventricular filling, resulting in a characteristic type of diastolic impairment, adiastole. MRI can demonstrate the underlying anatomical lesion: pericardial thickening, though the presence of a pericardium or normal thickness does not entirely exclude the possibility of constriction. As such, the presence of additional imaging features such as abnormal right ventricular shape, vena cava dilatation, and paradoxical movement of the intraventricular septum, during operator-guided deep respiration.

Spectrum of pericardial disease: part II

Pericardial disease is a common disorder seen in varying clinical settings, and may be the first manifestation of an underlying systemic disease. In part I, we focused on the current knowledge and management of the more common pericardial diseases: acute pericarditis, pericardial effusion, cardiac tamponade, chronic pericarditis and relapsing pericarditis. In part II, we will focus on the knowledge and management of pericardial involvement in chylous pericardial effusion cholesterol pericarditis, radiation pericarditis, pericardial involvement in systemic inflammatory diseases, autoreactive pericarditis, pericarditis in renal failure, pericardial constriction and effusive constrictive pericarditis.

The utility of cardiovascular magnetic resonance in constrictive pericardial disease

Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) has a high diagnostic accuracy for constrictive pericarditis (CP). CMR allows for high-resolution imaging of the pericardium and associated structures in any imaging plane compared with that provided by other imaging modalities. We briefly discuss the specific quantitative and qualitative CMR sequences that can be tailored to answer the clinical questions pertaining to CP, where the diagnostic yield has been proven when characteristic CMR features of CP are present. Such features allow for differentiation of CP from restrictive cardiomyopathy, where the clinical differentiation between the 2 can often be challenging.

Effusive constrictive pericarditis

Effusive constrictive pericarditis (ECP) is a relatively infrequent pericardial condition. The diagnosis is typically made when symptoms and right heart pressure elevation persist despite drainage of pericardial effusion. Visceral and parietal pericardial stripping is an extensive procedure with significant morbidity and mortality but is widely considered the only effective treatment. Recent studies suggest that up to 10% of constriction may be reversible, and a newer series has reported spontaneous complete resolution of symptoms in a subset of ECP patients. In this review, the authors describe 2 patients with ECP who were managed successfully with steroids and colchicine, respectively, thus obviating the need for surgery. The authors also review the current understanding of this reversible pericardial pathology and explore the possible role for colchicine in treating this condition.

Magnetic resonance imaging of pericardial disease and intracardiac thrombus

Magnetic resonance is known to be a superior modality for the evaluation of pericardial disease and intracardiac masses because of its unmatched capacity for tissue characterization and high spatial resolution. New real-time sequences complement the standard morphologic imaging of the pericardium with dynamic image acquisitions that also can provide hemodynamic information indicative of constriction. Magnetic resonance also is becoming increasingly recognized as a superior modality for the detection and characterization of intracardiac thrombus. This article reviews the use of magnetic resonance imaging for the evaluation of pericardial disease and the detection of intracardiac thrombus, with particular emphasis on the newer pulse sequences currently available for cardiac imaging.

Constrictive pericarditis

Constrictive pericarditis (CP) is characterized by scarring and loss of elasticity of the pericardium, resulting in external impedance of cardiac filling. In the developed world, CP is most frequently encountered as a consequence of previous cardiac surgery, thoracic irradiation, viral or idiopathic causes. Tuberculosis still remains a common cause of CP in the developing world, immigrants from underdeveloped nations, and immunosuppressed patients. Clinical signs and symptoms of right heart failure coupled with risk factors for pericardial disease should raise suspicion for CP. Echocardiographic evaluation and often cardiac catheterization are essential components of accurate diagnosis of CP. Enhanced interventricular dependence, with respiratory variation in the ventricular pressures, and ventricular discordance are the pathophysiologic hallmarks of CP. Imaging findings such as increased pericardial thickness or pericardial calcification on computed tomography can be supportive, but are not necessary for the diagnosis of CP. Pericardiectomy remains the most effective therapy for symptomatic CP.

Computerized acoustic cardiographic insights into the pericardial knock in constrictive pericarditis

BACKGROUND

One of the clinical hallmarks of constrictive pericarditis is the pericardial knock, a high-pitched early diastolic heart sound. Making the clinical diagnosis of constrictive pericarditis is challenging, as is accurate auscultation of the pericardial knock.

HYPOTHESIS

We sought to assess the utility of a computerized acoustic cardiographic device in the assessment of the pericardial knock in patients with constrictive pericarditis.

METHODS

We report a case series in which computerized acoustic cardiography (Audicor, Inovise Medical Inc., Portland, OR) is performed in patients with constrictive pericarditis.

RESULTS

Three patients with constrictive pericarditis underwent computerized acoustic cardiographic recordings at the time of cardiac catheterization. In each case, initial physical examination by the internist and referring cardiologist did not appreciate a pericardial knock. Acoustic cardiography demonstrated a high-pitched early diastolic sound in each case. Time-frequency representation analyses showed the high-frequency components of the pericardial knock sound. Repeat acoustic cardiography demonstrated resolution of the pericardial knock after pericardiectomy in two patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Non-invasive computerized acoustic cardiography can demonstrate the high-pitched pericardial knock in patients with constrictive pericarditis. This may aid the bedside assessment of patients with diastolic heart failure, improving the clinician's ability to appreciate the ausculatory findings in constrictive pericarditis.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Pericardial Disease and Cardiac Masses

MRI is known to be a superior modality for evaluating pericardial disease and masses because of its unmatched capacity for tissue characterization and high spatial resolution. New real-time sequences now complement the standard morphologic imaging of the pericardium with dynamic image acquisitions that also can provide hemodynamic information indicative of constriction. In the evaluation of masses, recently developed rapid imaging sequences have shortened examination times and improved lesion characterization. The full spectrum of pericardial disease and cardiac masses is reviewed, and the role of MRI explored.