Clinical and pathological characteristics of pericardial effusions: A tertiary-level healthcare center experience

Introduction. Pericardial effusion represents a significant medical issue with diverse origins, often associated with malignant conditions. This study aims to comprehensively analyze the demographic, clinical, and cytological aspects of pericardial effusion in patients treated at a tertiary center. Methods. This retrospective study included a four-year period and obtained fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) analysis results of pericardial effusion in 80 patients. Data covering demographics, reasons for hospitalization, and cytological analyses were collected and statistically evaluated. Results. The average age of participants was 67±12 years, with a slight male predominance. The primary reasons for hospitalization were impending cardiac tamponade (41%), massive effusions (27%), and cardiac decompensation (9%). Hemorrhagic and malignant effusions were prevalent cytologically. Malignant effusions were noted in 20% of cases, primarily originating from lung adenocarcinoma, and in approximately 15% of cases, served as an initial indicator of hidden malignancy. Conclusion. Understanding the demographic patterns, clinical presentations, and cytological types of pericardial effusion is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. This research highlights the significance of pericardial effusion as a potential indicator of an underlying malignancy and underscores the importance of early detection and intervention.