Complicated Iatrogenic Pneumopericardium in a Patient With Suspected Multiple Myeloma

Pedro A Adrover López1, Darcy M Diago Blanco2, Pedro Santiago Rodríguez1

  • 1Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship, Centro Médico Episcopal San Lucas, Ponce, PRI.

Cureus
|June 2, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Tension pneumopericardium, a rare complication of pericardiocentesis, requires immediate treatment. This case highlights the importance of recognizing and managing this emergent condition to prevent cardiorespiratory arrest.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Thoracic Surgery

Background:

  • Pneumopericardium, air in the pericardial sac, has varied causes with no established consensus.
  • While often self-resolving, it can lead to critical complications like cardiac tamponade and cardiorespiratory arrest.

Observation:

  • A rare instance of tension pneumopericardium occurred post-therapeutic pericardiocentesis.
  • This iatrogenic event necessitated urgent intervention.

Findings:

  • Radiological and echocardiographic data were analyzed for this unusual case.
  • The findings underscore the potential for serious complications following pericardial procedures.

Implications:

  • Highlights the need for vigilance regarding iatrogenic pneumopericardium.
  • Emphasizes prompt recognition and management of tension pneumopericardium to avert life-threatening outcomes.

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