Pericardial Effusion Classification and Causes

Pericardial effusion, the accumulation of excess fluid around the heart, can be categorized into three main degrees: mild, moderate, and severe. Mild pericardial effusion typically involves less than 100 milliliters of fluid. When the volume ranges between 100 and 500 milliliters, it is classified as moderate. If the fluid accumulation exceeds 500 milliliters, it is considered severe and may require immediate medical attention.

Causes of Pericardial Effusion

There are two primary categories of causes for pericardial effusion: infectious and non-infectious factors. Understanding these causes can help in diagnosing the underlying condition and determining the appropriate treatment plan.

Infectious Causes

Infections are a common cause of pericardial effusion. These may include bacterial infections, viral infections, fungal infections, and tuberculosis. Each of these can lead to inflammation of the pericardium, resulting in fluid buildup around the heart.

Non-Infectious Causes

Non-infectious conditions also play a significant role in the development of pericardial effusion. Autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis can contribute to this condition. Additionally, various types of cancers, including lung cancer, breast cancer, lymphoma, and mediastinal tumors, may lead to fluid accumulation around the heart. Other non-infectious causes include hypothyroidism, uremia (buildup of waste products in the blood due to kidney failure), gout, and complications from heart attacks.