Purulent pericarditis refers to localized inflammation in the setting of infection of the pericardial sac surrounding the heart.

[3][7] Treatment modalities for purulent pericarditis include antibiotic therapy, with potential adjuncts such as pericardiocentesis or pericardial window when cardiac compromise is evident.

[3] Purulent pericarditis usually presents acutely, marked by high fever, tachycardia, cough, and chest pain.

[4][8] The diagnosis of purulent pericarditis requires a combination of clinical assessment, laboratory tests, and imaging studies.

Pericardiocentesis with evaluation of pericardial fluid by culture and microscopy is necessary to make the diagnosis, however several other findings may increase the likelihood of purulent pericarditis.