Article ID Journal Published Year Pages File Type
9209346 Medicina Intensiva 2005 5 Pages PDF
Abstract
Purulent pericarditis is a rare entity at present, with a rapidly fatal course in absence of treatment. Its clinical diagnosis is difficult due to the appearance of pericardial tamponade. Classically produced by Gram positive aerobic germs, the incidence of anaerobic, Gram negative and fungal etiology seems to increase. Pneumococcal etiology is rare today and almost always accompanies a clear pleuropulmonary infection. Treatment bases are early pericardiocentesis, intravenous wide spectrum antibiotic treatment and support treatment in the intensive care unit. The best pericardial drainage technique in these patients continues to be debatable, given the limited existing clinical experience. Prognosis is good if recognized early, with a relatively low sequel rate, generally as constrictive pericarditis. We present a case of primary purulent pneumococcal pericarditis and a review of the literature in this regards.
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