The Role of Inflammation: How Pericarditis Can Lead to a Tamponade
The most common cause of pericarditis, an inflammation of the pericardium, is a viral infection. While many cases of pericarditis resolve on their own, some can lead to a buildup of fluid in the pericardial sac, a condition known as pericardial effusion. If this effusion is large or accumulates quickly, it can lead to cardiac tamponade. The inflammation and irritation of the pericardial layers cause the body to produce excess fluid, and if the pericardial sac cannot stretch to accommodate it, pressure builds up on the heart. This progression from a common inflammatory condition to a life-threatening emergency underscores the importance of monitoring patients with pericarditis and being vigilant for signs of an impending tamponade. The link between these two conditions is a key area of focus for diagnostics and therapeutics in the Cardiac Tamponade Market.