CT can detect the presence of a pericardial effusion; however, it is not accurate to estimate size. The 12-lead ECG may show low voltage, pericarditis (if present) or electrical alternans.

The clinical diagnosis of acute pericarditis is based on simple criteria: typical chest pain, pericardial friction rub (Figure 2), widespread ST-segment elevation (Figure 3) and pericardial ...

ECG changes (diffuse ST-segment elevation or PR depression) and pericardial effusion (Table 2). A clinical diagnosis of myopericarditis can be performed in patients with a definite diagnosis of ...

Cardiac tamponade occurs when a pericardial effusion exerts a significant amount of pressure externally on the heart, resulting in impaired right ventricular filling eventually causing decreased ...