# The Utility of Invasive Hemodynamic Assessment in Diagnosing Constrictive Pericarditis: A Case Report

## TL;DR

This case report highlights how invasive hemodynamic testing helped diagnose constrictive pericarditis in a patient with ambiguous symptoms.

## Contribution

The report emphasizes the diagnostic value of right heart catheterization in confirming constrictive pericarditis.

## Key findings

- Computed tomography revealed pericardial calcifications and effusion in a patient with volume overload.
- Right heart catheterization confirmed hemodynamic patterns consistent with constrictive pericarditis.
- The case illustrates the importance of invasive assessment in diagnosing this rare condition.

## Abstract

Pericarditis leading to constrictive physiology is rarely diagnosed given its vague presentation. Abnormal diastolic filling from a stiff pericardium brings about signs and symptoms consistent with right-sided heart failure. We report the case of a 57-year-old female who presented with worsening shortness of breath and signs of volume overload. Chest computed tomography showed evidence of pericardial calcifications with pericardial effusion. Further evaluation with right heart catheterization suggested findings diagnostic of constrictive pericarditis.