Pericarditis is inflammation of the sac around the heart, called the pericardium. If pericarditis becomes chronic, it can lead to pericardial effusion. This is when the pericardium fills with fluid.

This content is sponsored by MedStar Washington Hospital Center. Although well tolerated for some patients, fluid buildup around the heart, particularly in excess, can cause other complications like ...

A pericardial effusion is the buildup of excess fluid between the heart and the sac surrounding the heart, known as the pericardium. Pericardial effusion is the buildup of an excess amount of fluid in ...