An open pericardial window with biopsy and antituberculous therapy provided effective management for tuberculous pericarditis in a series of 10 patients.
Case Report (n=10)
What is the optimal diagnostic workup and therapeutic management for tuberculous pericarditis?
Open pericardial window with biopsy and corticosteroids are suggested for optimal management of tuberculous pericarditis to aid diagnosis and prevent fluid reaccumulation.
Pericarditis is a rare manifestation of tuberculous disease. The appropriate diagnostic workup and optimal therapeutic management are not well defined. We present 10 new cases of tuberculous pericarditis and review the relevant literature. The specific topics addressed are (1) the importance of tissue for diagnosis, (2) the optimal surgical management, (3) the role of corticosteroids, and (4) the impact of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) on the management of this disease. The cases and the literature suggest that the optimal management includes an open pericardial window with biopsy, both for diagnosis and to prevent reaccumulation of fluid. Corticosteroids probably offer some benefit in preventing fluid reaccumulation as well. The data are inconclusive regarding whether open drainage or corticosteroid use prevents progression to constrictive pericarditis. No studies have addressed these issues specifically in HIV-positive patients, but the 3 HIV-positive patients in our series had an excellent response to drainage and antituberculous therapy.
Trautner et al. (Mon,) conducted a case report in Tuberculous pericarditis (n=10). Open pericardial window with biopsy and corticosteroids was evaluated. An open pericardial window with biopsy and antituberculous therapy provided effective management for tuberculous pericarditis in a series of 10 patients.