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Updated: Jul 18, 2026
05:18
Ultrasound-Guided Needle Release Combined with Corticosteroid Injection for the Treatment of Supinator Syndrome
Published on: May 26, 2023
Experience with adjunctive corticosteroids in managing tuberculous pericarditis
Helmuth Reuter1, Lesley J Burgess, Vernon J Louw
1Cardiology Unit/TREAD Research, Tygerberg Hospital and Stellenbosch University, Parow, Western Cape, South Africa.
Summary
Corticosteroids, whether given intrapericardially or orally, did not improve outcomes for tuberculous pericarditis. Standard anti-tuberculosis therapy was effective for this condition, even in HIV-positive patients.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Tuberculous pericarditis is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide.
- Effective management strategies are crucial, especially in resource-limited settings.
- The role of adjunctive corticosteroid therapy remains debated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of intrapericardial corticosteroid therapy compared to oral corticosteroids or placebo.
- To assess the impact of corticosteroids on clinical outcomes in tuberculous pericarditis.
- To determine if corticosteroids improve outcomes when added to pericardiocentesis and anti-tuberculous therapy.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial was conducted with patients requiring pericardiocentesis for tuberculous pericarditis.
- Patients received anti-tuberculous therapy and were randomized to intrapericardial triamcinolone, oral prednisone, or placebo.
- Follow-up was conducted for at least one year to assess clinical outcomes and complications.
Main Results:
- Fifty-seven patients were included; 36.8% were HIV positive.
- Hospitalization duration was shorter in steroid groups, but not significantly.
- Complications were similar across all treatment arms, and corticosteroids were well tolerated.
Conclusions:
- Intrapericardial and systemic corticosteroids did not improve clinical outcomes in tuberculous pericarditis.
- Standard anti-tuberculous therapy was effective, irrespective of HIV status.
- Adjunctive corticosteroids did not demonstrate significant benefits in this study.
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