Pericardial tamponade due to synergistic effects of tuberculosis and myxedema.

ABSTRACT

Tuberculosis is a leading cause of massive pericardial effusion and tamponade especially in underdeveloped and developing countries. Hypothyroidism is also associated with pericardial effusion with rare progression to tamponade. We present a case of pericardial tamponade who diagnosed as both tuberculosis and myxedema at admission. Urgent pericardiocentesis performed as an initial therapy and four-agents antituberculous and thyroxine replacement therapy started immediately as long-term management. Coexistance of tuberculosis and myxedema is a rare condition and they can cause tamponade formation with synergistic effect. Such a additive etiologies of pericardial tamponade have not been reported.