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A Rare Case of Restrictive Cardiomyopathy Presenting With Large, Recurrent Pericardial Effusions
Andres Cordova Sanchez1, Zachariah Nealy1, Atika Azhar1
1State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, USA.
Journal of Investigative Medicine High Impact Case Reports
|November 30, 2021
Summary
Large pericardial effusion is rarely linked to restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM). This case highlights a patient with RCM and recurrent effusions, showing worsening heart function despite surgery, necessitating transplant evaluation.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiac Surgery
- Cardiovascular Imaging
Background:
- Restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM) is a diastolic dysfunction characterized by impaired ventricular filling.
- Pericardial effusion, the accumulation of fluid in the pericardial sac, can cause tamponade and heart failure.
- The coexistence of large pericardial effusion and RCM is exceptionally rare.
Observation:
- A 31-year-old male presented with symptoms of heart failure.
- He had a history of large, recurrent pericardial effusion.
- Echocardiography revealed progressive diastolic dysfunction.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM).
- Despite a total pericardiectomy, diastolic function continued to worsen.
- The large pericardial effusion persisted, contributing to heart failure symptoms.
Implications:
- This case underscores the uncommon association between large pericardial effusion and RCM.
- It highlights the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in managing such complex cardiac conditions.
- The patient's progression necessitated evaluation for advanced therapies, including cardiac transplantation.
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