What can be mistaken for pericarditis?

The presentation of acute pericarditis can often mimic that of acute myocardial infarction. Vasculitis/connective tissue disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupis erythematosus (SLE), systemic sclerosis, CREST syndrome, and inflammatory bowel disease.

What is fibrinous pericarditis?

Fibrinous pericarditis is an inflammatory process involving the pericardium, leading to a rough and granular appearance with numerous fibrous adhesions 4.

What are the different types of pericarditis?

The main types of pericarditis include:

• viral pericarditis.
• bacterial pericarditis.
• constrictive pericarditis.
• post-heart attack pericarditis.
• chronic effusive pericarditis.

What is the most common cause of pericarditis?

Pericarditis, or inflammation of the pericardium, is most often caused by viral infection. It can also develop as a result of bacterial or other infection, autoimmune disease, renal failure, injury to the mediastinal area, and the effects of certain drugs (notably hydralazine and procainamide).

Does pericarditis hurt to touch?

If you have pericarditis, you’ll notice pain in your chest. This pain is usually constant and may be sharp, stabbing or aching. You may find this gets better if you sit down and lean forward. But the pain may spread to your neck and shoulders (especially your left shoulder), and to your tummy (abdomen).

How does pericarditis feel?

Chest pain is the most common symptom of pericarditis. It usually feels sharp or stabbing. However, some people have dull, achy or pressure-like chest pain. Pericarditis pain usually occurs behind the breastbone or on the left side of the chest.

What is a bread and butter pericarditis?

Cardiovascular Pathology. The epicardial surface of the heart shows a shaggy fibrinous exudate. This is another example of fibrinous pericarditis. This appearance has often been called a “bread and butter” pericarditis, but you would have to drop your buttered bread on the carpet to really get this effect.

What are the common causes of fibrinous pericarditis?

There are a number of possible causes of acute fibrinous pericarditis, including myocardial infarction, uraemia, rheumatic fever, systems lupus erythematosis, irradiation of the chest, trauma and (rarely) infections.

Is pericarditis life threatening?

Pericarditis can range from mild illness that gets better on its own, to a life-threatening condition. Fluid buildup around the heart and poor heart function can complicate the disorder. The outcome is good if pericarditis is treated right away. Most people recover in 2 weeks to 3 months.

What causes pericarditis flare ups?

Causes of pericarditis The cause of pericarditis is often unknown, though viral infections are a common reason. Pericarditis may occur after a respiratory or digestive system infection. Chronic and recurring pericarditis may be caused by autoimmune disorders such as lupus, scleroderma and rheumatoid arthritis.

Can you feel pericarditis?

Does pericarditis feel like burning?

Symptoms of Pericarditis: Chest pain is most often sharp or burning in character.