Malignant pericardial effusion in the elderly

The normal pericardial cavity contains approximately 30 ml of fluid, which acts as a lubricant to reduce friction. In patients with malignant tumors, pericardial effusion exceeding 50 ml is considered malignant pericardial effusion. Cardiac involvement by progressive malignancy is not uncommon, with primary lesions most frequently originating from bronchogenic lung cancer and mediastinal tumors; connective tissue diseases and systemic lupus erythematosus may also cause it. Recent reports indicate that AIDS has become an important cause of malignant pericardial effusion in the elderly. Cardiac tamponade, if present, constitutes an emergency requiring urgent management.