Understanding Secondary Pericardial Effusions: A Comprehensive Overview

Pericardial effusion, a prevalent complication stemming from both inflammatory and non-inflammatory disorders, can significantly impact cardiac function. This review highlights the incidence, causes, and treatment strategies associated with secondary pericardial effusions, emphasizing the importance of understanding underlying etiologies for effective management. While small to moderate effusions are often managed conservatively with observation and anti-inflammatory medication, larger effusions may lead to severe hemodynamic consequences like cardiac tamponade, necessitating urgent intervention. Treatment options vary based on the effusion's size and etiology, with pericardiocentesis being the standard for significant cases. Notably, the review details various causes, including infections, malignancies, and autoimmune diseases, while discussing geographical variations in incidence. Diagnostic approaches primarily rely on echocardiography, aiding in the assessment of effusion size and characteristics. This comprehensive analysis serves as a crucial resource for understanding the complexities of secondary pericardial effusions and guiding clinical decision-making.