ECG and X-ray findings in pericardial effusion in adult hypothyroid patients

Introduction: Pericardial effusions can be caused by multiple disease states, including any process that results in pericarditis or myocarditis. The inflammatory reaction in these disease states can result in fluid accumulation in the pericardial space. Systemic manifestations of hypothyroidism can significantly vary according to the thyroid function, the presence of associated diseases and the duration of autoimmunity. Long-term overt hypothyroidism significantly affects growth as well as heart, liver, skin, and kidney functions, causing signs and symptoms that promptly lead to its diagnosis. The aim of the study: To analyze the important diagnostic tool ECG and X-ray finding among diagnosed pericardial effusion adult hypothyroid patients. Materials and methods: The study was conducted in 2017. Patients attending the Outpatient Clinic of the Department of Endocrinology who satisfied the inclusion criteria were registered for the study after obtaining their consent. A detailed questionnaire was used to elicit symptoms of hypothyroidism. ECG and x-ray findings were predicted accordingly. Results: Low voltage complexes were found in 17 patients (24.29%), sinus bradycardia was found in 6 patients (0.09%), the poor progression of R waves in 3 patients (0.04%). The remaining 44 patients had a normal ECG. Chest films showed Mild cardiomegaly in 20 patients (28.57%). 11 of these 20 patients had pericardial effusion on echocardiography. One patient with echo proven pericardial effusion had normal chest X-ray. So chest X-rays can be used to look for clues for pericardial effusion. Conclusion: Clinical features of pericardial effusion show statistically significant association with its presence on echocardiogram. ECG and CXR can be used to predict the presence of a Pericardial Effusion.