Pericarditis, an infection with accumulation of fluid in the pericardial sac, can lead to cardiac ________, a condition in which the fluid presses on the heart and stops it from beating.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Pericarditis can lead to pericardial effusion, which is the accumulation of fluid in the pericardial sac, and if left untreated, can lead to cardiac tamponade. Cardiac tamponade is a condition where the fluid accumulation in the pericardial sac begins to compress and hinder the heart's ability to beat normally. Symptoms may include shortness of breath, chest pain, and low blood pressure. Immediate medical attention is required to prevent heart failure or death. Therefore, the correct answer is D, tamponade.

Pericarditis, an Infection with Accumulation of Fluid in the Pericardial