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Complications
By Mayo Clinic staffTwo rare but serious complications of Dressler's syndrome include the following conditions:
- Cardiac tamponade. Inflammation associated with Dressler's syndrome may result in the accumulation of fluids within the pericardium (pericardial effusion). If too much fluid builds up, pressure on the heart forces it to work harder and reduces its ability to pump blood efficiently. This condition is called cardiac tamponade.
- Constrictive pericarditis. This condition develops when recurring or chronic inflammation of the pericardium causes the sac to become thick or scarred. This condition also results in the heart working harder and pumping less efficiently.
Related disorders
The immune system response that leads to Dressler's syndrome may also contribute to accompanying conditions:
- Pleurisy, inflammation of the membranes (pleura) around your lungs
- Pleural effusion, a buildup of pleural fluid around your lungs
References
- Hoit B. Pericardial disease. In: Fuster V, et al., eds. Hurst's The Heart. 12th ed. New York, N.Y.: McGraw-Hill Medical; 2008.
- Hoit BD. Pericardial and postpericardial injury syndromes. http://www.uptodate.com/index.html. Accessed Feb. 10, 2010.
- LeWinter MM. Pericardial complications of myocardial infarction. http://www.uptodate.com/index.html. Accessed Feb. 10. 2010.
- Pericarditis. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merck.com/mmpe/sec07/ch078/ch078a.html?qt=Post%20pericardiotomy%20&alt=sh. Accessed Feb. 12, 2010.
- Heffner JE. Pleural effusions following cardiac surgery. http://www.uptodate.com/index.html. Accessed Feb. 10, 2010.
- Grogan M (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. March 1, 2010.
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