Pericarditis is described as:

• A. Inflammation of the Pericardium
• B. Heart Cannot Pump
• C. Improper Closure of Mitral Valve
• D. Narrowing of Valves

Answer: (A)

Pericarditis is inflammation of the pericardium, the double-layered sac surrounding the heart. This inflammation defines the condition, distinguishing it from problems with pumping ability or with the heart valves. Inflammation of the pericardial lining can cause sharp chest pain that worsens with deep breaths and lying flat, and may produce a pericardial friction rub on examination, along with specific ECG changes. It can also lead to fluid around the heart in some cases. The idea that the heart cannot pump describes heart failure, which is a different issue tied to the heart’s pumping function rather than the pericardial lining. Valvular problems involve the heart valves—either improper closure or narrowing—rather than the pericardial sac itself.