Pericardial disease

Pericardial diseases are common but rigorous large-scale or randomized studies of current clinical practice remain limited. This article outlines an up-to-date and practical approach to the clinical assessment and investigation of pericarditis, pericardial effusions and constrictive pericarditis. The management of these conditions is discussed in line with current best practice. Limited clinical trial data underlines the importance of bedside and investigative skills that are paramount in assessing both the function and form of this organ and the treatment options.