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Multimodality Imaging for the Assessment of Pericardial Diseases

  • Echocardiography (JM Gardin and AH Waller, Section Editors)
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

The diagnosis of pericardial syndromes, while occasionally straightforward, includes a wide range of pathologies and is often a well-recognized clinical challenge. The aim of this review is to highlight the key role of the various imaging modalities for the diagnosis and management of the spectrum of pericardial diseases.

Recent Findings

Cardiac imaging has become an integral part of the diagnostic process often beginning with echocardiography and supported by advanced imaging modalities including computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and positive emission tomography. These modalities go beyond the simple identification of the pericardium, to identifying increased pericardial thickness, active pericardial edema and inflammation, and its effect on cardiac hemodynamics.

Summary

Multimodality imaging has significantly facilitated the diagnosis and long-term management of patients with pericardial diseases. The role of these imaging modalities in overall prognosis and prevention remains to be investigated.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Heart and Vascular Institute, Center for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Pericardial Disease, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA

    Michael Chetrit, Bo Xu, Beni R. Verma & Allan L. Klein

  2. Pericardial Disease Center, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Ave., Desk J1-5, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA

    Michael Chetrit, Bo Xu, Beni R. Verma & Allan L. Klein

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Michael Chetrit, Bo Xu, and Beni R. Verma declare that they have no conflict of interest. Allan L. Klein has received honoraria from Sobi and a research grant from Kiniksa.

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Chetrit, M., Xu, B., Verma, B.R. et al. Multimodality Imaging for the Assessment of Pericardial Diseases. Curr Cardiol Rep 21, 41 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11886-019-1115-y

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