Pericardial effusion

Pericardial effusion ('fluid around the heart') is an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the pericardial cavity. Because of the limited amount of space in the pericardial cavity, fluid accumulation leads to an increased intrapericardial pressure which can negatively affect heart function. A pericardial effusion with enough pressure to adversely affect heart function is called cardiac tamponade. Pericardial effusion usually results from a disturbed equilibrium between the production and re-absorption of pericardial fluid, or from a structural abnormality that allows fluid to enter the pericardial cavity.A CT scan image showing a pericardial effusionA very large hemorrhagic pericardial effusion due to malignancy as seen on ultrasound. closed arrow: the heart, open arrow: the effusionPericardial effusion due to malignancy. Note bulbous heart and primary lung cancer in right upper lobe.An ECG showing electrical alternans in a person with a pericardial effusion.A pericardial effusion due to pericarditisLoculated pericardial effusion Pericardial effusion ('fluid around the heart') is an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the pericardial cavity. Because of the limited amount of space in the pericardial cavity, fluid accumulation leads to an increased intrapericardial pressure which can negatively affect heart function. A pericardial effusion with enough pressure to adversely affect heart function is called cardiac tamponade. Pericardial effusion usually results from a disturbed equilibrium between the production and re-absorption of pericardial fluid, or from a structural abnormality that allows fluid to enter the pericardial cavity.