Publication at Third Faculty of Medicine |
1999
Abstract
Pericarditis is a common complication of acute myocardial infarction (MI). Its incidence during the first few days after acute MI is 24%-43% when echocardiographic criteria are used, whereas the frequency of clinical pericarditis is much less (from 5% for all acute Mis to 21% for anterior Q wave Mis).
Clinical, electrocardiographic findings are discussed. Effusions are mostly small, and the resolution is frequently slow, Lasting 1-18 months.
Tamponade is extremely rare in the absence of cardiac rupture. Q wave Mis (especially anterior) are more frequently accompanied by pericardial effusion.
The prognostic significance of echocardiographically proved pericarditis is questionable.
