01
Overview
Acute pericarditis is inflammation of the pericardial layers and may be infectious, immune-mediated, post-infarction, malignant, metabolic, or idiopathic.
02
Clinical Features
Pain is typically sharp and pleuritic and may improve when the patient sits forward.
A pericardial friction rub may be audible.
Positional pleuritic chest pain is a classic clinical clue.
03
ECG Findings
ECG may show widespread ST-segment elevation with PR-segment depression rather than a localized territorial pattern.
04
Management
Treatment is directed toward the cause and commonly includes anti-inflammatory therapy and colchicine when appropriate.
05
Clinical Pearls
REMEMBER
Pericarditis classically causes pleuritic chest pain relieved by sitting forward.
END OF REVIEW
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