What Is Cardiac Tamponade?
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
3. Cancer
The build up of fluid in the pericardium is known as a pericardial effusion. There are various different causes behind this, one of which is cancer. Cancer can cause damage to the heart and the pericardium in a way that causes excess fluid to be released. Cancer might also cause the condition in a more indirect manner.
Cancers in the chest area and these will sometimes be treated with help from radiation. Radiation can damage delicate tissues and, if the heart is bathed in the radiation, then cardiac tamponade may result. Possible side-effects of radiation like this are well known and radiation is only used when deemed necessary.
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