189. ECG features to distinguish pericarditis from ACS / Pericarditis + ventricular dysrhythmias or positive troponin = / Rx acute idiopathic pericarditis

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Steroids have fallen out of favor – if cannot tolerate ASA/NSAIDs, discuss with consultant.

Criteria that predict complications and should drive inpatient management:

1. Fever > 38 (100.4)
2. Subacute onset of symptoms
3. Large pericardial effusion or tamponade
4. Use of aspirin or high-dose NSAIDs x 1 week with persistent significant symptoms.
[as reviewed in May 2010 EMCase / Amal Matthu]