Q. What do you mean by Pericardial effusion?

Collection of fluid in the pericardial sac is known as Pericardial effusion. All cases of pericarditis can lead to pericardial effusion. The symptoms in a case of pericardial effusion depends upon the quantity and rate of accumulation of fluid. Rapid accumulation of large quantity of pericardial fluid can cause life threatening cardiac tamponade. Small to low moderate effusion, especially occurring insidiously, can be asymptomatic. Rapidly accumulating pericardial effusion of more than 200 ml. can cause haemodynamic disturbance and can produce symptoms. Slowly accumulating fluid in pericardial space may not produce symptoms even upto 1.5 to 2 litres. If the pericardium is stiff due to any pathology then smaller quantity of fluid can cause symptoms.