Sequential study of echocardiographic changes in purulent pericarditis

Abstract

Serial echocardiographic studies were performed in a child with purulent pericarditis. Besides demonstrating the pericardial effusion, echocardiography was used to assess cardiac function. Computer analysis of changes in left ventricular dimension showed impaired diastolic filling, persisting after pericardiocentesis but normalizing after pericardiectomy.