Acute pericarditis.

Abstract

Acute pericarditis is typically associated with a viral infection. Chest pain appearing in connection with or soon after the symptoms of infection is the characteristic symptom. Diagnosis is based on the recognition of two characteristic findings (pericardial chest pain, pericardial friction rub, new ECG changes or new pericardial effusion). Medication with an anti-inflammatory analgesic for 1 to 2 weeks is the first-line treatment. A longer course of colchicine is recommended for the prevention of recurrence of the disease. The use of glucocorticoids should be avoided due to the associated risk of recurrence. Exercise and physical activity are harmful during pericarditis.