Dressler Syndrome (Heart Sac Inflammation)
Description
Inflammation of the pericardial sac and is a complication that can occur following a heart attack or heart surgery. The pericardial sac surrounds the heart. The inflammation is thought to be secondary to an abnormal immune response, and usually develops several weeks or months after heart tissue injury.
Symptoms
Chest pain, chest pain that improves with sitting up, shortness of breath, fatigue, fever.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. An EKG can show characteristic abnormalities, and an echocardiogram will demonstrate reactive fluid surrounding the heart. A chest CT scan and/or MRI can show similar findings.
- CBC
- Chem 12
- Troponin
- X-Ray
- EKG
- CT Scan
- MRI
Treatment
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn), acetaminophen (Tylenol) to help reduce the inflammation and/or pain. If the fluid around the heart becomes severe it can be removed with a needle (pericardiocentesis). Severe cases occasionally require surgery to remove the pericardium (pericaridiectomy). For additional information contact the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute Health Information Center at: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov American Heart Association: (800)242-8721
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