Pericardial Effusion Understanding Symptoms Causes and Diagnosis

The heart is enclosed by a protective sac known as the pericardium. This sac consists of two layers — the visceral pericardium, which directly covers the heart, and the parietal pericardium, which forms the outer lining. Between these two layers lies a space called the pericardial cavity.

What Is Pericardial Effusion?

Under normal circumstances, a small amount of fluid — typically between 15 and 30 milliliters — is present within the pericardial cavity. This fluid serves as a lubricant, reducing friction between the two layers of the pericardium as the heart beats. However, when the volume of fluid exceeds 50 mL, the condition is referred to as pericardial effusion.

How Is Pericardial Effusion Detected?

Pericardial effusion can be diagnosed using various medical imaging techniques, with echocardiography being the most common and effective method. This non-invasive test uses sound waves to visualize the heart and detect any abnormal accumulation of fluid around it.

Causes and Further Investigation

There are numerous potential causes of pericardial effusion, including infections, inflammation of the pericardium (pericarditis), heart surgery, trauma, and certain autoimmune disorders. In some cases, further diagnostic procedures such as pericardiocentesis — the removal of fluid from the pericardial space using a needle — may be necessary to determine the underlying cause and guide treatment decisions.