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Massive pericardial effusion in sarcoidosis
1Pulmonary Medicine, St. Mary's Hospital, Rochester, NY 14611.
Respiration; International Review of Thoracic Diseases
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Massive pericardial effusion, a rare sarcoidosis complication, predominantly affects females and often causes cardiomegaly. Treatment typically involves drainage and steroids, though recurrences can occur.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pulmonology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Sarcoidosis is a multisystem inflammatory disease characterized by noncaseating granulomas.
- Massive pericardial effusion is an uncommon manifestation of sarcoidosis.
Observation:
- This review summarizes 10 cases of massive pericardial effusion in sarcoidosis.
- The majority of affected patients were female and presented with massive cardiomegaly.
- Radiographic findings often included bilateral hilar adenopathy and interstitial infiltrates.
Findings:
- Pericardial histology confirmed noncaseating granulomas in most cases.
- Nine out of ten patients required pericardial fluid drainage.
- Steroid therapy was effective for most patients, but 3 experienced recurrences.
Implications:
- Massive pericardial effusion should be considered in sarcoidosis patients with cardiomegaly.
- Early diagnosis and management, including drainage and immunosuppression, are crucial.
- Long-term monitoring is necessary due to potential recurrences and cardiac involvement.
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