Tuberculous and Infectious Pericarditis

Abstract

Viral pericarditis is the most common cause of acute pericarditis and it is typically responsive to aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Tuberculous pericarditis is common in immunocompromised patients or in immunocompetent patients in endemic areas. The diagnosis of tuberculous pericarditis usually requires a multi-disciplinary approach, and presumptive treatment should be started for people with suspected infections living in endemic areas. Antituberculous treatment along with corticosteroid therapy can reduce complications from constrictive pericarditis. Purulent pericarditis is fatal if untreated. Bacterial and fungal cultures from pericardial fluid and blood are essential to determine the best treatment.