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Pericardial Tamponade — SCE Medical Oncology MCQ

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EasyBreast CancerPericardial TamponadeSCE Medical Oncology

A 58-year-old woman with metastatic breast cancer develops pericardial tamponade. What is the immediate management?

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Correct answer: AEmergency pericardiocentesis

Malignant pericardial tamponade causes obstructive shock and requires urgent image-guided pericardial drainage while resuscitation proceeds. A cautious fluid bolus may temporarily support preload; diuretics can worsen filling, and recurrent malignant effusion may require a surgical window.

Reference: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/conditions-and-diseases/cancer