Factors in the Etiology of Constrictive Pericarditis

Abstract

Because of uncertainty existing in respect to the etiologic factors in certain cases of constrictive pericarditis, an analysis of 25 proven cases and of additional series from the literature was conducted. It was evident that a fairly consistent clinical syndrome developed, but the factor of myocardial insufficiency deserves as much consideration as actual constriction by the pericardium. The survey supports the belief that the clinical picture of chronic constrictive pericarditis may result from tuberculosis in most cases, at times only by implication. In addition, cases can result from trauma to the chest, rheumatic heart disease and purulent pericarditis.