Tubercular Pericarditis- A Case Series

Abstract

Tuberculosis is responsible for approximately 70% of cases of large pericardial effusion and most cases of constrictive pericarditis in developing countries. A definite or proven diagnosis is based on demonstration of tubercle bacilli in pericardial fluid or on histologic section of the pericardium. A probable or presumed diagnosis is based on proof of tuberculosis elsewhere in a patient with otherwise unexplained pericarditis, a lymphocytic pericardial exudate with elevated biomarkers of tuberculous infection, and/or appropriate response to a trial of antituberculosis chemotherapy.Here we report 3 cases of tubercular pericarditis of which 2 cases survived and one died due to cardiac arrest. The objectives of this case series is to emphasize that tuberculous pericarditis is a dangerous disease with a mortality of 17% to 40%; constriction occurs in a similar proportion of cases after tuberculous pericardial effusion. Early diagnosis and institution of appropriate therapy are essential to prevent mortality.