Asian Journal of Research in Cardiovascular Diseases

Idiopathic Pericardial Tamponade in the Absence of Predisposing Factors: A Diagnostic Conundrum and Therapeutic Approach

Badr Abdalani *

Department of Cardiology P37, Ibn Rochd University Hospital (CHU Ibn Rochd), Casablanca, Morocco.

Omar Moufid

Department of Cardiology P37, Ibn Rochd University Hospital, Casablanca, Morocco.

Ibtissam Charkaoui

Department of Cardiology P37, Ibn Rochd University Hospital, Casablanca, Morocco.

Abdellah Boucetta

Department of Cardiology P37, Ibn Rochd University Hospital, Casablanca, Morocco.

M. GH. Benouna

Department of Cardiology P37, Ibn Rochd University Hospital, Casablanca, Morocco and Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University of Casablanca, Casablanca, Morocco.

A. Drighil

Department of Cardiology P37, Ibn Rochd University Hospital, Casablanca, Morocco and Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University of Casablanca, Casablanca, Morocco.

R. Habbal

Department of Cardiology P37, Ibn Rochd University Hospital, Casablanca, Morocco and Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University of Casablanca, Casablanca, Morocco.

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.

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Abstract

Pericardial effusion, while not uncommon, poses significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, particularly when presenting as tamponade, especially in young individuals without identifiable risk factors. We present a compelling case of a 19-year-old with acute dyspnea ultimately diagnosed with idiopathic pericardial tamponade. Despite a comprehensive evaluation ruling out infectious, neoplastic, and autoimmune etiologies, the underlying cause remained elusive. Urgent intervention via ultrasound-guided pericardiocentesis revealed hemorrhagic fluid, underscoring the critical role of timely management. Treatment with aspirin and colchicine resulted in symptom resolution, highlighting the efficacy of this therapeutic approach. Long-term follow-up demonstrated no recurrence, emphasizing the favorable prognosis associated with conservative management. This case underscores the importance of a systematic diagnostic approach and the need for further research to elucidate the pathophysiology and refine treatment strategies for this perplexing condition.

Keywords: Pericardial effusion, tamponade, idiopathic, non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs, colchicine, pericardocentesis

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