Pericardial Effusion Causes and Contributing Factors

Pericardial effusion refers to the abnormal accumulation of fluid in the pericardial cavity, and it can arise from a wide range of underlying causes. One of the primary contributors is infection, which can be triggered by various pathogens including viruses, bacteria, fungi, spirochetes, rickettsiae, and parasites. These infectious agents can lead to inflammation of the pericardium, resulting in fluid buildup.

Inflammatory and Autoimmune Conditions

In addition to infections, non-infectious inflammatory conditions are also significant causes of pericardial effusion. This includes acute idiopathic pericarditis, which has no identifiable cause, as well as systemic autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis, and polyarteritis nodosa. These conditions can cause the immune system to attack the pericardium, leading to inflammation and fluid accumulation.

Post-Procedure and Post-Event Syndromes

Post-Myocardial Infarction and Post-Pericardiotomy Syndromes

Pericardial effusion can also occur following certain cardiac events or procedures. For example, Dressler's syndrome, also known as post-myocardial infarction syndrome, can develop after a heart attack. Similarly, post-pericardiotomy syndrome may occur after heart surgery, where the pericardium becomes inflamed, often resulting in fluid accumulation.

Drug-Induced and Metabolic Causes

Some medications, such as procainamide, can trigger autoimmune reactions that lead to pericardial inflammation and effusion. In addition, metabolic conditions like uremia (buildup of toxins in the blood due to kidney failure) and gout can contribute to pericardial effusion by causing chemical irritation of the pericardium.

Tumors and Physical Trauma

Pericardial effusion may also result from either primary or metastatic tumors affecting the pericardium. Moreover, physical trauma to the chest, including injuries or radiation therapy to the chest area, can damage the pericardium and lead to fluid collection.