Childhood Cancer

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Childhood Cancer Survivors

Pericardium

Pericarditis is an inflammation of the sac surrounding the heart. Acute pericarditis usually occurs during treatment or within the first year after treatment. Delayed acute pericarditis, a rare occurrence, usually resolves within a few months but may persist for years.

Constrictive pericarditis occurs when the sac surrounding the heart becomes tough and inelastic. This can result in an accumulation of fluid that can interfere with the heart’s ability to pump efficiently. Constrictive pericarditis can occur years after treatment.

Signs and symptoms of pericarditis

The signs and symptoms of delayed acute pericarditis include the following:

  • Fever

  • Shortness of breath

  • ST wave changes (elevation) on the EKG

The signs and symptoms of constrictive pericarditis include the following:

  • Chest pain

  • Wheezing

  • Shortness of breath

  • Decreased ability to exercise

Screening and detection for pericarditis

Screening for pericarditis is the same as for other cardiac problems. However, if you develop any of the symptoms listed above, you should see your healthcare provider immediately to get an examination. Pericarditis can develop quickly and can be life-threatening.

Medical and surgical management of pericarditis

Radiation-induced pericarditis is treated with medications and sometimes with surgery.

Recommended schedule of life-long follow-up tests

Although recommendations evolve as more research is done, the current recommendations for heart evaluations after taking anthracyclines and/or having radiation to the heart can be found online by accessing Section 77 (p. 87) of: Children’s Oncology Group, Long-Term Follow-Up Guidelines for Survivors of Child, Adolescent, and Young Adult Cancers, V6 (Oct 2023). See Resources for website and link.

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