[Computerized tomography of pericardial diseases]

Computed tomography (CT) was used to examine 114 patients with pericardial diseases. CT symptomatology of pericardial diseases are given in detail. CT defines the thickness and density of the pericardium and its content. To identify constrictive pericarditis, it provides additional information on the status of the vena cava, atria, ventricles and on pleural changes. The minimum pericardial amount of capsulated fluid that can be detected by CT is estimated to be 10 ml. Multipositional CT and functional CT (to breathe in and out) are indicated in the diagnosis of pericardial cysts.