CHEST

Pericardial effusion is the presence of an abnormal amount of fluid in the pericardial space. Patients with pericardial effusion can have symptoms such as chest pain, chest discomfort, chest pressure, syncope, and palpitations. In most cases the underlying cause of pericardial effusion is idiopathic, which means it is not identified. It can however be caused by infections, viruses, post operative reasons, and neoplasia. Treatment is dependent upon the underlying cause so it can be a simple treatment such as medication to a more serious treatment like surgery.