Occurs with inflammation of the fibrous sac that is arround the heart called the pericarditis.

There are two layers when referring to Pericardium

Inner visceral layer and Outer parietal layer

Some fluid between them is normal for luberication

However an inflammatory process can occur causing a build-up of flud.

Causes include:
   •    Bacterial
   •    Viral
   •    Uremia
   •    Autoimmune diseases
   •    Neoplasms
   •    Drugs
   •    Surgery
   •    Trauma
   •    other

Symptoms
   -    Depends largely on cause
   -    Fever
   -    Upper respiratory infection may precede
   -    Renal failure may precede
   -    Night sweats
   -    Fever
   -    Fatigue

MRI or CT may be appropriate
Cardiac enzymes need to be checked
EKG can be helpful

Treatment
•         Aspirin
•         Steroids
•         Indomethacin
•         Colchicine
•         Dialysis in uremic pericarditis in some patients
•         Pericardiocentesis