What is pericardial effusion, and is it dangerous?
Disease description:
I don't know much about pericardial effusion, but I'd like to learn more about it now. Could someone please explain what pericardial effusion is and whether it's dangerous?
This disease is generally caused by inflammation of the pericardium leading to exudation of tissue fluid. After prolonged illness, patients commonly develop conditions such as myocarditis, tuberculosis, and tumors. In severe cases, symptoms may include cardiac tamponade, shock, loss of consciousness, and syncope. Timely treatment can be achieved through medication, primarily involving the use of hormones, and surgical intervention may also be an option. Large-volume pericardial effusion may occur suddenly.