“Pericardial infusion?”
On my ct scan, it says I have a small pericardial effusion. Does this typically mean cancer ? What can be the cause?
Female | 51 years old
5 Answers
CardiologistCardiologist
# 1 cause is viral infection. it is usually self limited. If thyroid gland is under functioning, it can cause pericardial effusion. collagen diseases, like lupus & rheumatoid arthritis can cause, After the heart attack,one can get it.After open heart surgery ,one can get it. Ofcourse , infection & cancer can cause when it spreads to the heart & lung.
Mark Rasak
Cardiologist
No, a small pericardial effusion is not uncommon in by no means cancer. It usually indicates inflammation, but if you are asymptomatic, a small pericardial effusion is most likely nothing to worry about. If any concerns exist, laboratory and an echocardiogram would be helpful.
No, it may be completely normal or it may be that you have recently had a viral infection that caused some temporary inflammation of your heart.
The Pericardial space has fluid normally sometimes it can be seen other times it can be more than normal, there are many causes of Pericardial Effusion that is not Cancer
The pericardium is the outer most layer covering the heart. It is normal to have a minimal amount of fluid in the pericardium(effusion) When fluid builds up to a serious level, it can cause problems with breathing. Causes of pericardial effusion can be certain drugs, viral or bacterial infections, trauma, or certain malignancies. The most common cause is a viral infection. If there are no symptoms, then nothing need be done with a minimal effusion. It should be watched, usually by echocardiogram, to see if it changes, at which point, medication or drainage can be utilized.
