Massive Pericardial Effusion in a 14-Year-Old Girl with Mild Fatigue and Neck Pain

Abstract

Pericardial effusion is rare in pediatric patients and is characterized by a variable clinical presentation. Mild symptoms may be present despite severe effusion. We here report the case of a patient with massive pericardial effusion with mild clinical presentation. Our case points out the need not to exclude this diagnosis in patients with mild general impairment. This clinical suspicion can be lifesaving.

Keywords

• massive pericardial effusion
• pediatric emergency medicine
• swinging heart sign