Computed tomography of the normal pericardium.

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Imaging
• Radiology
• Anatomy

Background:

• The pericardium is a vital sac surrounding the heart, and its thickness can indicate disease.
• Accurate measurement of pericardial thickness is crucial for diagnosing conditions like pericarditis and effusions.
• Computed tomography (CT) is a common imaging modality used to visualize cardiac structures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the normal range of pericardial thickness using computed tomographic (CT) scans.
• To establish reference values for pericardial thickness in a patient cohort.
• To assess if focal variations in pericardial width are a normal finding.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 100 patient CT scans.
• Identification and measurement of the thinnest portion of the pericardium.
• Analysis of measurements based on sex and overall cohort.

Main Results:

• The pericardium was visualized in 95% of patients.
• The mean pericardial thickness was 2.2 +/- 0.6 mm.
• No patient exhibited a pericardial thickness greater than 4 mm, with focal width variations being normal.

Conclusions:

• Normal pericardial thickness, as measured by CT, is generally less than 4 mm.
• Established reference values can aid in differentiating normal findings from pathological pericardial thickening.
• CT is effective in assessing pericardial dimensions, supporting its role in diagnosing pericardial conditions.