Question 1

what is a pericardial effusion?

Accepted Answer

Fluid around heart: Heart muscle is covered by very thin layer of tissue called epicardium. Further surrounded by very thin partially distensible sac called pericardium. Space between epi- and peri- cardium always  contains small amount of lubricating fluid.  Epi or pericardium can become inflammed or fluid can leak into this space. When fluid accumulates and becomes detectable it is an "effusion.".

Question 2

what's a trivial pericardial effusion?

Accepted Answer

No concern: We all have small amounts of fluid in the pericardial sac around the heart.  Think of motor oil for valves in engine which lubricates surfaces ti reduce friction.  If we can see this on an echocardiogram we will frequently say trivial effusion.

Question 3

trivial pericardial effusion. is it serious?

Accepted Answer

Unlikely: It is normal to have a small amount of pericardial fluid present. Current imaging techniques are more sensitive and therefore it is seen more frequently.

Question 4

how dangerous  is a small pericardial effusion?

Accepted Answer

Depends : Usually this is a benign finding, but the reason for the echocardiogram and the clinical scenario are important to answer your question. I strongly suggest you sit down with the cardiologist and ask a few questions to make sure this is nothing to worry about

Question 5

what meds do they give for pericardial effusion?

Accepted Answer

NSAIDS: Most common cause of effusion is inflammation of epi or pericardium.  Best treatment is generally anti inflammatory agents.  Could use steroids, but usual treatment is non steroidal agents typically Indomethacin although i believe any NSAID at equivalent dose is likely as effective.

Question 6

what does circumferential pericardial effusion mean?

Accepted Answer

Pericardial effusion: The fluid is all around the heart (circumferential) as opposed to only at places (loculated).

Question 7

what can i do to treat a reoccurring pericardial effusion?

Accepted Answer

No effective treatme: Chronic recurrent pericarditis is difficult to treat. In addition to the non steroidal medicines such as Ibuprofen during the acute exacerbation , Colchicine taken daily is often recommended to reduce the frequency of attacks.

Question 8

what is the definition or description of: pericardial effusion?

Accepted Answer

Fulid aroumd heart: Pericardium sac filled with fluid.

Question 9

what is the difference between a trivial and a small pericardial effusion?

Accepted Answer

Not much: Both are insignificant amounts and can even be the same if the echoes were read by different cardiologists. Not to worry as most likely just a different choice of words.

Question 10

what are the symptoms of worsening pericardial effusion, which was previously small?

Accepted Answer

Shortness of breath: Why are you having pericardial effusion to start with -- being so young? Was it infection? Or connective tissue disease?

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Loculated pericardial effusion

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Trivial pericardial effusion. is it serious?

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What is the definition or description of: pericardial effusion?

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What is the difference between a trivial and a small pericardial effusion?

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What are the symptoms of worsening pericardial effusion, which was previously small?

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