Chronic Constrictive Pericarditis Explained

Chronic constrictive pericarditis is a long-term inflammatory condition that affects both the pericardium and the heart. The pericardium is a thin, protective membrane that surrounds the heart. Under normal circumstances, the pericardium does not adhere to the heart muscle, and there is a small space known as the pericardial cavity between them. This cavity contains a lubricating fluid that allows the heart to move smoothly during each beat.

Understanding the Development of the Condition

When inflammation occurs in the pericardium, it can lead to scarring, thickening, and eventually adhesion between the layers of the pericardium and the heart itself. This results in a rigid, fibrous covering that restricts the heart's ability to expand properly during each beat. This restriction can impair the heart's efficiency and lead to a range of cardiovascular symptoms.

Common Causes of Chronic Constrictive Pericarditis

One of the primary pathways to developing chronic constrictive pericarditis is through the progression of acute pericarditis, which fails to resolve completely and transitions into a long-term condition. Additionally, other underlying diseases—such as tuberculosis—are known to contribute significantly to the development of this condition. Other potential causes include viral infections, previous heart surgery, radiation therapy to the chest, or autoimmune disorders.