Fluid in the membranes round the heart after cardiotomy.
A condition that may develop weeks or months after surgery to the heart and the membrane surrounding it (pericardium) and is characterized by fever and pericarditis. Pneumonia and pleurisy may form part of the syndrome. It is thought to be an autoimmune disease and may be recurrent. A similar syndrome (Dressier ‘s syndrome) may follow myocardial infarction. It may respond to anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin, indomethacin, or corticosteroids.