cardiac tamponade

pathology

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Last updated

June 22, 2026

Quick Summary

Cardiac tamponade is a serious condition where excess fluid accumulates in the pericardium, the sac surrounding the heart. This buildup can compress the heart, hindering its ability to fill with blood and reducing cardiac output.1

This condition can arise from various causes, including infections, inflammatory diseases, cancer, or injury to the pericardium. Symptoms may include chest pain and a characteristic sound called friction rub. If the fluid accumulates rapidly or in large amounts, it can lead to a shocklike state that may be lethal. Prompt removal of the fluid is a life-saving emergency measure and helps in identifying the underlying cause.1

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pericarditis
…increase of pericardial fluid, called cardiac tamponade, may cause circulatory failure.
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…increase of pericardial fluid, called cardiac tamponade, may cause circulatory failure.
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cardiovascular disease
Diseases of the pericardium
…is compressed, a state called cardiac tamponade. There is interference with the heart’s ability to fill with blood and reduction of cardiac output. In its more severe form, cardiac tamponade causes a shocklike state that may be lethal. Removal of the fluid is lifesaving in an emergency and aids in…
Read More
…is compressed, a state called cardiac tamponade. There is interference with the heart’s ability to fill with blood and reduction of cardiac output. In its more severe form, cardiac tamponade causes a shocklike state that may be lethal. Removal of the fluid is lifesaving in an emergency and aids in…
Read More