Acute Nonspecific Pericarditis

Abstract

Acute nonspecific pericarditis has been recognized with increasing frequency in recent years although there is reason to believe that it was considered distinct from rheumatic pericarditis almost 100 years ago. The authors have been able to secure follow-up information on 50 cases seen between 1930 and 1949. A few have shown persistent electrocardiographic changes, and calcification of the pericardium occurred in 1 case. In general the prognosis appears excellent and we have not observed constrictive pericarditis as a sequela.

Non-tuberculous Constrictive Pericarditis

“…On three occasions the first episode of pericarditis was associated with a virus infection (Robertson and Arnold, 1962;Azar, 1963). Calcification of the pericardium has not been described, though Carmichael et al (1951) recorded its occurrence after "acute benign pericarditis " in the absence of constriction. The histological appearance of the pericardium has had no specific features.…”

Acute Benign Pericarditis in Infancy

“…Carmichael, Sprague, Wyman and Bland (1951) describe a series of 50 cases, and, in a review of the literature, suggest that the syndrome is becoming more common, especially in young adults. Friedman, Ash, Harris and Lee (1952) record the syndrome in infants of 5 months and 3 months of age respectively.…”

“…The serological evidence failed to substantiate a rheumatic aetiology. Carmichael et al (1951) found a large number of cases in their series with a personal or family history of allergy. Pericarditis, clinically indistinguishable fromn benign non-specific pericarditis, has been reported during serum sickness (McKinlay, 1948).…”