Management of acute pericarditis

Abstract

Purpose of review: Provide an update on current management and most recent evidence in the treatment of pediatric pericarditis.

Recent findings: While treatment of acute pericarditis has not significantly changed over the last decade, management of recurrent acute pericarditis, with increased attention to autoinflammation as a causal mechanism, has evolved substantially. This includes clinical trial evidence that newer medications targeting interleukin-1 receptors are effective in recurrent forms of pericarditis. In addition, advanced imaging utilizing cardiac magnetic resonance has emerged as a particularly effective way to detect ongoing pericardial inflammation in support of more difficult-to-treat patients.

Summary: Recent advances in acute and recurrent pericarditis management have allowed for a more tailored approach to the individual patient. Yet, unresolved questions require further research.