A potentially life-threatening compression of the HEART by the accumulation of fluid in the pericardial sac (see PERICARDIUM) – for example, blood after a penetrating knife wound. This is characterised by TACHYCARDIA, PULSUS PARADOXUS, low blood pressure, raised pressure in the JUGULAR vein, and abnormally quiet heart sounds.
Treatment
consists of draining the fluid (which may be blood or an effusion) and treating the underlying cause.