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Recurrent postoperative effusive-constrictive pericarditis associated with steroid discontinuation
Gyung-Min Park1, Jong-Young Lee, Yong-Giun Kim
1Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
Journal of Cardiovascular Ultrasound
|July 28, 2010
Summary
Transient effusive-constrictive pericarditis, a rare post-cardiac surgery complication, requires established treatment. This case highlights successful steroid management for symptom relief and relapse prevention in a patient with effusive-constrictive pericarditis.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiac Surgery
- Pericardial Diseases
Background:
- Transient effusive-constrictive pericarditis is an uncommon but recognized complication following open-heart surgery.
- Optimal treatment strategies for patients presenting with pericardial effusion and constrictive physiology post-surgery are not well-defined.
Observation:
- A 50-year-old woman developed transient effusive-constrictive pericarditis after aortic valve replacement for infective endocarditis.
- Initial treatment with prednisolone and ibuprofen provided significant symptom relief.
Findings:
- The patient experienced a relapse of pericarditis upon rapid discontinuation of steroid therapy.
- Re-initiation of steroid treatment led to stabilization of her condition.
Implications:
- This case suggests that corticosteroids may be effective in managing transient effusive-constrictive pericarditis post-cardiac surgery.
- Careful management of steroid withdrawal is crucial to prevent relapse in these patients.
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