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[A young man with recurrent chest pain]
Rik Steenmeijer1, Jan-Henk H E Dambrink, Martijn F Boomsma
1Isala Klinieken, Afd. Cardiologie, Zwolle, the Netherlands.
Background:
Pericarditis is seen quite often in daily clinical practice. It is a condition that is fairly easy to diagnose, but which frequently recurs.
Case Description:
A 23-year-old man suffered from recurring episodes of chest pain which, following further investigation, appeared to be a result of pericarditis. MRI revealed indications for acute exacerbation of chronic pericarditis. Additional investigation showed no underlying cause for the pericarditis. After long-term medication with calcium carbasalate and colchicine there was no recurrence and the patient was able to function as before.
Conclusion:
Chest pain in young people can be a symptom of pericarditis. This condition quite often recurs, but in most patients no underlying cause is revealed. Adequate medication with calcium carbasalate and colchicine reduces the chance of recurrence.
Insights
Recurrent pericarditis, a common condition, can cause chest pain in young adults. Long-term treatment with calcium carbasalate and colchicine effectively prevents symptom recurrence.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Pericarditis is a common clinical condition characterized by frequent recurrences.
- Diagnosis is typically straightforward, but management of recurrent cases remains a challenge.
Observation:
- A 23-year-old male presented with recurrent chest pain attributed to pericarditis.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) confirmed acute exacerbation of chronic pericarditis.
- Extensive investigations failed to identify an underlying etiology for the pericarditis.
Findings:
- Long-term administration of calcium carbasalate and colchicine resulted in complete resolution of symptoms.
- The patient experienced no further episodes of pericarditis and resumed normal activities.
Implications:
- Chest pain in young individuals may indicate pericarditis, a condition known for its high recurrence rate.
- Identifying and treating the underlying cause is often not possible.
- Effective management with calcium carbasalate and colchicine can significantly reduce recurrence, improving patient outcomes.
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