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Lung cancer with malignant pericardial effusion

Case contributed by Roberto Schubert
Diagnosis probable

Presentation

Cough, dyspnea, weight loss.

Patient Data

Age: 65
Gender: Female

Case Discussion

pericardial effusion is characterized by build up of fluid in the pericardial space (a normal pericardiac sac contains approximately 30 - 50 mls of fluid). 

The pericardium, including the epicardium (visceral layer of the pericardium) is by far the most commonly affected site. The myocardium can be involved through direct tumor extension from the pericardium. However, malignant melanoma may result in diffuse myocardial involvement through hematogenous spread. Only about 5% of cardiac metastases are endocardial/intracavitary lesions 1.

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