[Recurrent acute pericarditis and corticoid dependence. Apropos of 10 cases]

The authors report ten cases of acute recurrent pericarditis observed over a period of 5 years and emphasize the frequency of these relapses involving 15 to 20% of cases of acute pericarditis. Usually, no cause is found and, althrough an immunological mechanism has been suggested, there is no common test which may confirm or disprove this theory. The risk of ultimate constrictive pericarditis is minimal and this risk is thus not taken into consideration in deciding on treatment. On the other hand, the undesirable effects of corticosteroids which favour relapses, seem to be demonstrated. The use of corticosteroids in cases of acute pericarditis should thus be exceptional and one should prefer non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs. Immunosuppressors and pericardectomy should be reserved for the rare forms where the disease progresses and relapses continue after cortisone has been stopped.