Peri-Myocardial Infarction Pericarditis: Current Concepts

Abstract

Peri-Myocardial Infarction Pericarditis (PMIP), or epistenocardiac pericarditis, has been considered a relatively benign condition occurring within a few days after Myocardial Infarction (MI). Although the condition usually does not require specific treatment, the finding of a pericardial friction rub in the post-MI patient does prompt a careful review of post-MI symptoms and test results, including dysrhythmia recordings, Electro-Cardio Grams (EKG), and the Transthoracic Echocardiogram (TTE) to exclude potentially life threatening post-MI mechanical complications such as free wall rupture. The auscultatory findings of a pericardial rub often represent a teaching opportunity for house staff and students, yet given the self-limited course of PMIP, very little is known regarding the mechanism, biology, imaging findings, and management strategy in patients with and without symptoms. We review the current understanding of PMIP for clinicians caring for post-MI patients.