A number of parameters can be used to describe a pericardial effusion.
Parameters:
(1) onset/duration
(2) size in mm on echocardiography
(3) distribution
(4) fluid composition
(5) hemodynamic impact
|
Parameter
|
Finding
|
Descriptive Term
|
|
onset/duration
|
< 4-6 weeks
|
acute
|
|
|
6 weeks to 3 months
|
subacute
|
|
|
> 3 months
|
chronic
|
|
size
|
< 10 mm
|
mild
|
|
|
10 to 20 mm
|
moderate
|
|
|
> 20 mm
|
large
|
|
distribution
|
restricted
|
loculated
|
|
|
unrestricted
|
circumferential
|
|
composition
|
low protein
|
transudate
|
|
|
high protein
|
exudate
|
|
|
bloody
|
hemorrhagic
|
|
hemodynamic impact
|
|
none
|
|
|
|
tamponade
|
|
|
|
constrictive
|
