Constrictive pericarditis with extensive pericardial calcification: case
report and review of literature
Abstract
Constrictive pericarditis refers to inflammation of the pericardial sac,
possibly leading to acute heart failure. More than 80% cases are
presumed to be due to recent or remote viral illnesses. Prominent
features include chest pain, dyspnea and electrocardiogram (ECG)
revealing P-R segment depression, diffuse concave ST segment elevation,
and T-wave inversion. Echocardiogram and cardiac magnetic resonance
imaging (MRI) can help establish diagnosis. Over time, the pericardium
can undergo fibrosis or calcification resulting in excessive symptoms.
After medical management with ibuprofen, colchicine or steroids, partial
or complete pericardiectomy is considered. We are presenting a case with
constrictive pericarditis due to extensive pericardial calcification,
and ultimate resolution with pericardiectomy.