An unusual cause of acute pericarditis: a case report

Abstract

Background Inflammation of the pericardium, or pericarditis, is a frequent cause of acute chest pain in young patients. Pericarditis is typically associated with viral infections, but other potential causes may have distinct prognostic and therapeutic implications. Case summary A 26-year-old man presented with typical signs and symptoms of acute pericarditis. However, imaging disclosed an anterior mediastinal mass that compressed the right ventricular outflow tract. The coarse outflow murmur convincingly mimicked a pericardial friction rub on auscultation. Conclusion Clinicians should be aware of alternative aetiologies to pericarditis in patients who present with prolonged or refractory symptoms.