Pericardial effusion

Case contributed by Henry Knipe
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Breathlessness. Left sided crackles to mid zone.

Patient Data

Age: 80 years
Gender: Female
x-ray

Marked enlargement of the cardiac silhouette, even for an AP projection. Small right pleural effusion and small-to-moderate left pleural effusion. 

Case Discussion

There is a very long list for an enlarged cardiac silhouette, but when one is as big as this, and with a slightly globular shape then pericardial effusion should be near the top. Comparison with prior chest x-rays is always very useful, and will often show a marked change in size in a short timeframe, confirming the diagnosis. 

How to use cases

You can use Radiopaedia cases in a variety of ways to help you learn and teach.

Creating your own cases is easy.

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.