Hospitalization for Acute Pericarditis in a Developing Country: Incidence and Trend (2000-2013)

Objective: We aimed at estimating the standardized incidence rate (SIR) of hospitalizations for acute pericarditis (HAP) in Monastir governorate. Methods: We have enrolled a prospective study including all patients residents of Monastir, newly diagnosed with AP, admitted in cardiology departments between 2000 and 2013 (2001 not included). Data was collected from the regional register of Monastir hospital morbidity. The HAP crude incidence rate (CIR) was calculated based on the Tunisian population statistics, expressed per 105 inhabitants. The age-standardized incidence Rate (SIR) was calculated using the world standard population. Results: During study period, 333 patients have been newly admitted for AP. The mean age was 53 (IQR: 39-65) years and sex ratio was 0.85. CIR was 5.22 per 105 inh with a strong positive correlation between age and CIR (r=0.892, p=0.000). We have notified a negative trend of CIR (r=-0.244, p=0.000) from 2000 to 2013.The SIR was 7.41 PY being 7.32 in men and 7.49 in women (p=0.139). HAP lethality was 2.1% being 3.0% in elderly. Hospitalizations for AP represented 1.26% of all cardiology admissions (95%, CI: 1.13-1.39). The median length of hospital stay was 8 days (IQR: 4-14). Conclusion: we have notified a significant decrease in incidence of HAP, further to epidemiological transition in developing country, lethality is being considerable yet.