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Acute pericarditis — RACP Written MCQ

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HardCardiologyAcute pericarditisRACP Written

A 54-year-old woman has pleuritic chest pain improved by sitting forward 2 weeks after a viral illness. ECG shows diffuse ST elevation and PR depression. Troponin is mildly elevated, CRP is 86 mg/L and echocardiography shows a small effusion without chamber collapse. What is the most appropriate management?

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Correct answer: A — NSAID plus colchicine with activity restriction

The pattern is acute myopericarditis without tamponade. Anti-inflammatory therapy, colchicine and exercise restriction are appropriate with monitoring.

Reference: National Heart Foundation of Australia; Therapeutic Guidelines: Cardiovascular