Noninvasive Imaging of Pericardium

ABSTRACT

The clinical manifestation of pericardial disease is similar to that of coronary artery disease and aortic disease. Therefore, a timely and accurate diagnosis is necessary. The pericardium is a 2-layered membrane that envelops the heart and great vessels, and there are numerous anatomic variations and pathologic conditions. Large or unusually located pericardial recesses can be easily mistaken for abnormal findings. Additionally, primary pericardial diseases resulting from infections, tumors, and injuries are possible; further, diseases can quickly spread along the pericardium. Echocardiography is generally the first imaging tool used to evaluate the pericardium. However, it has limited windows and poor resolution. Besides, the evaluation of postoperative echocardiography is sometimes limited. Currently, CT and MR imaging are useful for evaluating pericardial diseases. Detailed knowledge of the pericardium is important for interpreting the images and clinical results.