The Utility of Invasive Hemodynamic Assessment in Diagnosing Constrictive Pericarditis: A Case Report

Pericarditis leading to constrictive physiology is rarely diagnosed given its vague presentation. Abnormal diastolic filling from a stiff pericardium brings about signs and symptoms consistent with right-sided heart failure. We report the case of a 57-year-old female who presented with worsening shortness of breath and signs of volume overload. Chest computed tomography showed evidence of pericardial calcifications with pericardial effusion. Further evaluation with right heart catheterization suggested findings diagnostic of constrictive pericarditis.