Pediatricsbasic
What is the central pathophysiological feature of constrictive pericarditis?
Answer
A scarred, thickened pericardium restricts cardiac filling and limits cardiac volume
Explanation
Constrictive pericarditis occurs when a **scarred and thickened**, frequently calcified pericardium limits cardiac expansion and filling. This differs from tamponade, in which pressure from fluid in the pericardial space compresses the heart. The remaining options describe unrelated processes or incorrectly treat all pericardial fluid as tamponade. **Key takeaway:** In constriction, a diseased, rigid pericardium mechanically limits cardiac filling. **Glossary:** **Calcified**: containing calcium deposits. **Constrictive**: restricting expansion or movement.
Related Questions
- Which factors are associated with higher ARF occurrence or susceptibility? Select ALL that apply.(intermediate)
- Explain why ARF remains an important public-health problem despite declining incidence in many industrialized countries.(intermediate)
- Acute rheumatic fever occurs most frequently in children and adolescents aged 5 to 15 years.(basic)
- After a prior episode of ARF, recurrence following untreated GAS pharyngitis can approach 50%.(intermediate)
- The highest incidence of ARF occurs in children aged approximately _____ years.(basic)
Want to practice more questions like this?
Join myBenkio free and practice past questions for your Nigerian university courses with AI explanations for every answer.
Start Practicing Free