Cardiac Pathology: Review of Pericarditis and Myocarditis

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to pericarditis, myocarditis, and associated procedures, symptoms, and treatments.

Pericarditis

Inflammation of the pericardium, or sac surrounding the heart.

Pericardium

The outer protective sac around the heart.

Myocardium

The muscular middle layer of the heart wall.

Endocardium

The inner layer of tissue lining the heart chambers.

Low grade fever

A fever ranging from 100°F to 100.9°F.

Orthopnea

Shortness of breath that occurs when lying flat.

ECG (EKG)

An electrocardiogram that measures electrical activity of the heart.

ST segment elevation

A specific pattern in an ECG that may indicate myocardial infarction.

Pericardiocentesis

A procedure to remove fluid from the pericardial sac for testing.

Friction rub

A grating sound heard with a stethoscope indicating inflamed pericardium.

Antibiotic

A medication used to treat bacterial infections.

Corticosteroids

Anti-inflammatory medications that may raise blood sugar levels.

Cardiac tamponade

Life-threatening compression of the heart due to fluid accumulation.

Troponin

A protein elevated during myocardial injury, often tested for heart attacks.

Biopsy

A procedure to remove tissue for diagnosis.

Anticoagulant

A medication that prevents blood clots.

DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis)

A blood clot in a deep vein, often in the legs.

Virchow's Triad

Three factors contributing to thrombosis: stasis, hypercoagulability, and endothelial injury.

Telemetry

Continuous monitoring of heart rhythms using electronic devices.

Antiplatelet

A medication that prevents platelets from clumping together to form clots.

Thrombolytics

Medications that dissolve blood clots.