Inflammation of the pericardium is called?

• A. Pericarditis
• B. Myocarditis
• C. Endocarditis
• D. Pericardial effusion

Answer: (A)

Inflammation of the sac around the heart is called pericarditis. The pericardium is the double-layered membrane surrounding the heart; when it becomes inflamed, the condition is named pericarditis and can present with chest pain, a possible friction rub, and sometimes characteristic EKG changes.

Endocarditis refers to inflammation of the heart’s inner lining and valves, while myocarditis is inflammation of the heart muscle itself. Pericardial effusion is not an inflammation name but the buildup of fluid in the pericardial space, which can occur with pericarditis but is a separate finding.