Adult Echocardiography Practice Exam

What is the primary echocardiographic finding in acute pericarditis?

1. A. pericardial effusion

2. B. thickened pericardium

3. C. hypokinesia

4. D. dilated ventricles

The correct answer is: A. pericardial effusion

The primary echocardiographic finding in acute pericarditis is often a pericardial effusion. In acute pericarditis, inflammation of the pericardium can lead to the accumulation of fluid in the pericardial space, resulting in this effusion. This fluid appears as anechoic (dark) areas around the heart on an echocardiogram. While thickening of the pericardium can occur in chronic conditions, it is not typically observed in the acute phase of pericarditis. Hypokinesia, which refers to decreased movement of the heart muscle, and dilated ventricles are more commonly associated with cardiomyopathic conditions rather than with inflammation of the pericardium. Therefore, the presence of pericardial effusion is a hallmark finding that helps confirm the diagnosis of acute pericarditis during echocardiography.