Beyond the usual signs: Pseudo-pericarditis as an under-appreciated outcome of tropical theileriosis

Abstract

Pseudopericarditis is an often-overlooked clinical manifestation of tropical theileriosis, with only a few sporadic reports describing its occurrence. The present note documents clinical cases of tropical theileriosis exhibiting characteristic signs of pseudopericarditis, including jugular vein distension and brisket oedema. The proposed pathogenesis, supported by a schematic illustration, suggests that enlarged mediastinal lymph nodes exert pressure on major intrathoracic vessels, thereby impairing venous return and producing the clinical signs observed. Additionally, the roles of oncotic, osmotic, and hydrostatic pressure imbalances in the pathobiology of pseudopericarditis have been emphasised. Field veterinarians should therefore consider tropical theileriosis as a differential diagnosis in animals presenting with brisket oedema and/or jugular vein distension.