Tuberculous pericarditis in an older adult: a case report

Abstract

We report a case of tuberculous pericarditis in a 65-year-old man. Tuberculous pericarditis is an extra-pulmonary tuberculous in endemic areas. Its complications include constrictive pericarditis and cardiac tamponade. Computed tomography and cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging are important tools to detect pericardial disease. Measurement of adenosine deaminase level in the pericardial fluid is a valuable diagnostic test, with good specificity and sensitivity. Timely administration of anti-tuberculous and steroid therapy reduces the risk of constrictive pericarditis.