constrictive pericarditis
A condition where the pericardium becomes thickened, fibrotic, and non-compliant, restricting cardiac filling and impairing diastolic function.
Full Definition
Constrictive pericarditis results from chronic inflammation leading to pericardial fibrosis, calcification, and loss of elasticity. The rigid pericardial shell restricts cardiac filling, causing equalization of diastolic pressures in all cardiac chambers. Common causes include prior cardiac surgery, radiation therapy, tuberculosis, and connective tissue diseases. Histologically, the pericardium shows dense fibrosis often with calcification and chronic inflammation. The condition may be reversible in early stages but typically requires pericardiectomy once established. Clinical presentation includes signs of right heart failure with preserved systolic function.
Usage
Usage note: Key differential diagnosis is restrictive cardiomyopathy.
In Context
- "The pericardiectomy specimen demonstrated severe constrictive pericarditis with dense calcific deposits." — surgical pathology report
- "Hemodynamic studies confirmed constrictive pericarditis with characteristic pressure equalization." — catheterization report