Pericarditis—ChildPronounced: pair-e-kar-DI-tis
by
Marjorie Montemayor-Quellenberg, MA DefinitionPericarditis is an inflammation of the sac around the heart. In some cases, the inflammation may cause fluid to build up in the sac and make it difficult for the heart to move.
CausesThe exact cause of pericarditis is often unknown. Infections, injuries or chronic disease may be involved in some cases. Risk FactorsFactors that increase the risk for pericarditis include:
SymptomsChest pain is a common symptom. It may start over the left side or center of the chest and spread to the neck and left shoulder. The pain is usually a sharp, stabbing pain that may be worse with deep breathing or lying down. Other symptoms may include:
DiagnosisYou will be asked about your child’s symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. The doctor will listen for a grating or rubbing sound in your child’s heart. If the condition is severe, there may also be a crackle sound in your child’s lungs. Images may be taken to evaluate the heart and surrounding tissue. This can be done with:
Your child's heart activity may be tested. This can be done with an electrocardiogram (EKG). Your child's bodily fluids may be tested. This can be done with:
TreatmentThe illness can range from mild to life-threatening. Acute inflammatory pericarditis usually improves with treatment within a few weeks or months. Pericarditis caused by chronic inflammatory diseases, like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, may last longer or occur again. Treatment options include: MedicationThe doctor may advise medication to:
Antibiotics may be given if the pericarditis is associated with a bacterial infection. ProceduresFor severe pericarditis, your child may need:
PreventionThere are no current guidelines to prevent pericarditis. RESOURCES:American Heart Association http://www.heart.org National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov CANADIAN RESOURCES:Canadian Cardiovascular Society http://www.ccs.ca Canadian Family Physician http://www.cfp.ca References:
Acute and recurrent pericarditis. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at:
http://www.dynamed...
. Updated September 26, 2017. Accessed December 27, 2017.
Pediatric pericarditis. Cincinnati Children's website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Updated July 2016. Accessed December 27, 2017. Pericarditis. Seattle Children's Hospital website. Available at ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed December 27, 2017. Last reviewed November 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Kari Kassir, MD Last Updated: 12/20/2014 |
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