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A progressive pericardial effusion caused by psittacosis
S R Page1, J T Stewart, J J Bernstein
1Department of Medicine II, St George's Hospital, London.
British Heart Journal
|July 1, 1988
Abstract:
A patient developed signs of a progressive pericardial effusion over a period of eight days. Diagnostic and therapeutic pericardiocentesis was performed. Viral titres to psittacosis rose from less than 1:8 to greater than 1:256 indicating recent infection.
Insights
A patient experienced a progressive pericardial effusion, a serious heart condition. Diagnostic tests revealed a recent psittacosis infection as the likely cause.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Medical Diagnostics
Background:
- Pericardial effusion is the abnormal accumulation of fluid in the pericardial space.
- Progressive effusions can lead to cardiac tamponade, a life-threatening condition.
- Psittacosis is a bacterial infection typically transmitted from birds.
Observation:
- A patient presented with symptoms of a rapidly worsening pericardial effusion over eight days.
- Diagnostic and therapeutic pericardiocentesis was performed to remove the excess fluid.
- The procedure provided immediate relief and allowed for sample analysis.
Findings:
- Viral titres for psittacosis showed a significant increase, from less than 1:8 to over 1:256.
- This serological change indicates a recent and active psittacosis infection.
- The elevated titres strongly correlate with the patient's pericardial effusion.
Implications:
- Psittacosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of unexplained pericardial effusions.
- Early diagnosis and treatment of psittacosis can prevent severe cardiac complications.
- This case highlights the importance of considering zoonotic infections in cardiovascular presentations.