Mycobacterial Diseases
Open Access

Pericardial Tuberculosis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

Sahim Nawaz^{* *}Correspondence: Sahim Nawaz, Department of Bacteriology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana, Email:

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Description

Pericardial tuberculosis is a type of tuberculosis that affects the pericardium, which is the membrane that surrounds the heart. This condition is caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which can also cause other forms of tuberculosis such as pulmonary tuberculosis. Pericardial tuberculosis is a rare condition, but it can be life-threatening if left untreated. Some of the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of pericardial tuberculosis.

Causes

Pericardial tuberculosis is caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which can also cause pulmonary tuberculosis. This bacterium is usually spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes and another person inhale the bacteria. The bacteria can then travel through the lungs and into the bloodstream, where it can spread to other parts of the body including the pericardium.

Symptoms

The symptoms of pericardial tuberculosis can vary depending on the severity of the infection. Some of the common symptoms include:

• Chest pain

• Shortness of breath

• Fatigue

• Cough

• Fever

• Night sweats

• Loss of appetite

• Swelling in the legs or abdomen

• Rapid heartbeat

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of pericardial tuberculosis can be challenging because the symptoms are similar to those of other heart conditions such as pericarditis or heart failure. A healthcare provider will usually start by taking a medical history and performing a physical exam. They may also order some tests to confirm the diagnosis, such as:

Blood tests: These tests can detect the presence of the bacteria in the blood.

Chest x-ray: This can help identify any abnormalities in the lungs that may be caused by tuberculosis.

Echocardiogram: This test uses sound waves to create images of the heart and can show any fluid buildup in the pericardium.

CT scan or MRI: These imaging tests can provide more detailed images of the heart and pericardium.

Pericardiocentesis: This is a procedure where a needle is inserted into the pericardium to remove fluid for analysis.

Treatment

The treatment of pericardial tuberculosis usually involves a combination of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications. The antibiotics are used to kill the bacteria, while the antiinflammatory medications are used to reduce inflammation in the pericardium. The length of treatment can vary depending on the severity of the infection, but it typically lasts for several months. It is important to take all of the antibiotics as prescribed, even if you start to feel better before the medication is finished. This is because stopping the medication early can lead to the development of drug-resistant bacteria, which are much more difficult to treat. In some cases, pericardial tuberculosis can cause complications such as constrictive pericarditis, which is a condition where the pericardium becomes thick and rigid, making it difficult for the heart to pump blood effectively. In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove the thickened pericardium and allow the heart to function properly.

Prevention

The best way to prevent pericardial tuberculosis is to avoid close contact with people who have tuberculosis. If you are in close contact with someone who has tuberculosis, it is important to get tested for the infection and receive treatment if necessary. If you have tuberculosis, it is important to follow the treatment plan prescribed by your healthcare provider and take all of the medication as directed. This will help prevent the development of drug-resistant bacteria and reduce the risk of spreading the infection to others.

Conclusion

Pericardial tuberculosis is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that affects the pericardium, which is the membrane surrounding the heart. It is caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which can also cause other forms of tuberculosis. The symptoms of pericardial tuberculosis can vary, but can include chest pain, shortness of breath, and rapid heartbeat.

Diagnosis can be challenging, but typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests. Treatment usually involves a combination of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications, and it is important to take all of the medication as prescribed.

The best way to prevent pericardial tuberculosis is to avoid close contact with people who have tuberculosis and to follow prescribed treatment plans if you have tuberculosis. If left untreated, pericardial tuberculosis can lead to serious complications such as constrictive pericarditis. Therefore, it is important to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of pericardial tuberculosis.