Pericardial Effusion (PE)

Pericardial effusion is the accumulation of fluid in the pericardial space formed by two layers of the pericardium. Normally, there is little or no fluid in the pericardial space. The collection of fluid in the pericardial space compresses the heart thus hampering its filling capacity. The common symptoms of pericardial effusion are chest pain, breathlessness, and low blood pressure. Tuberculosis is a common cause of pericardial effusion. Pericardial effusion can be diagnosed with the help of echocardiography. Percutaneous or surgical pericardiocentesis is required in cases affecting heart function and causing low blood pressure.
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