Szívburokfolyadék

Szívburokfolyadék refers to the fluid that is normally present in the pericardial space, the thin sac that surrounds the heart. This fluid acts as a lubricant, allowing the heart to beat smoothly within the chest cavity without friction. Typically, the amount of pericardial fluid is very small, usually between 15 and 50 milliliters. Its primary function is to reduce friction between the two layers of the pericardium, the visceral layer that covers the heart and the parietal layer that lines the outer sac.

An increase in the amount of pericardial fluid is known as pericardial effusion. This condition can arise from various causes, including inflammation of the pericardium (pericarditis), infections, heart failure, kidney disease, certain cancers, and trauma. When the fluid accumulates, it can put pressure on the heart, restricting its ability to fill and pump effectively. This can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, and palpitations. In severe cases, a rapid and significant buildup of fluid can cause cardiac tamponade, a life-threatening condition where the heart is severely compressed. Diagnosis often involves imaging techniques like echocardiography, which can visualize the fluid and assess its impact on heart function. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and the amount of fluid, ranging from observation to medication to procedures like pericardiocentesis to drain the excess fluid.