Clinical Profile and Treatment Outcomes of Patients with Chronic Pericarditis

Abstract

Chronic pericarditis is a persistent inflammatory condition of the pericardium associated with significant morbidity due to recurrence and complications. Understanding its clinical profile and treatment outcomes is essential for improving patient management. To evaluate the clinical characteristics, etiological spectrum, diagnostic findings, and treatment outcomes of patients with chronic pericarditis. This hospital-based observational study included 80 patients diagnosed with chronic pericarditis. Data on demographic characteristics, clinical presentation, laboratory parameters, imaging findings, treatment modalities, and outcomes were collected and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The mean age of patients was 47.3 ± 13.8 years, with a slight male predominance (52.5%). Chest pain (76.2%) and dyspnea (57.5%) were the most common presenting symptoms. Idiopathic pericarditis was the predominant etiology (42.5%), followed by tuberculous (22.5%) and autoimmune causes (13.7%). Elevated inflammatory markers were observed, with mean ESR of 42.8 ± 15.6 mm/hr and CRP of 18.7 ± 9.4 mg/L. Most patients (65.0%) were managed with NSAIDs and colchicine, while 7.5% required surgical intervention. Clinical improvement was observed in 70.0% of patients, whereas recurrence occurred in 22.5%. Significant associations were noted between inflammatory markers and recurrence (p < 0.05). Chronic pericarditis presents with varied etiologies and clinical features but shows favorable outcomes with appropriate medical management. Early diagnosis and monitoring of inflammatory markers are crucial to reduce recurrence and complications.