I31.9

Clinical Causes: Viral infections, most commonly coxsackieviruses or influenza Bacterial infections, such as tuberculosis or bacterial endocarditis Autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus Heart surgery or trauma nearby the heart Cancer spreading to the pericardium, including lung or breast cancer Certain medications or radiation therapy Other underlying health conditions

Key Symptoms: Sharp or stabbing chest pain, often worsening when lying down or coughing Relief of pain when sitting up or leaning forward Shortness of breath, especially when reclining Fever and general feeling of illness Palpitations or irregular heartbeat Swelling in the legs or abdomen in severe cases Fatigue or weakness

Diagnosis Path: Electrocardiogram (ECG) to detect abnormal heart rhythms or electrical activity changes Chest X-ray to observe the size and shape of the heart and pericardial space Echocardiogram, an ultrasound of the heart, to visualize the pericardium and detect fluid accumulation Blood tests to identify infections, inflammation markers, and signs of autoimmune activity Pericardial fluid analysis if an effusion is present

Treatment Protocols: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce inflammation and relieve pain Colchicine, sometimes prescribed to decrease inflammation and reduce recurrences Corticosteroids for more severe or autoimmune-related cases Treating the underlying cause, such as antibiotics for bacterial infections Pericardiocentesis, a procedure to remove excess fluid from the pericardial sac if it causes significant pressure on the heart Surgical interventions if necessary, such as pericardiectomy in chronic or severe cases