THE diagnosis of pericardial effusion and pericarditis is often difficult. The history and physical signs can be misleading, and the electrocardiogram is frequently equivocal. A high index of ...

A 58-year-old woman presents to the hospital reporting fatigue, swelling of the legs and feet, and shortness of breath. She explains that her symptoms have been getting worse over the past 2 months.

This content is sponsored by MedStar Washington Hospital Center. Although well tolerated for some patients, fluid buildup around the heart, particularly in excess, can cause other complications like ...

Pericardial effusion is the medical term for fluid buildup in the space around the heart. Treatment can depend on what is causing the fluid to build up. The fluid appears between the membrane sac ...

Blood flows through the heart and generates noises known as heart sounds. These noises occur due to heart valves opening and closing as the heart pumps blood. A doctor can gain valuable information by ...