Pericardial cyst: an unexpected diagnosis in a patient presenting with breathlessness

Published Date: 04th March 2025

Publication Authors: Elboraey. O

Abstract
Pericardial cyst is a rare diagnosis, mainly considered a congenital condition. Most patients with pericardial cysts present without symptoms. Symptomatic presentation often relates to the size and location of the pericardial cyst. We report a case of a 49-year-old man who presented with subacute breathlessness in which the diagnosis of a pericardial cyst was made following various investigations – from transthoracic echocardiography and computed tomography scan to video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery biopsy, upon which a histological diagnosis was made. This case report reviews and discusses the available literature on the epidemiology and potential presenting features of a pericardial cyst, and the current recommended assessment and management strategies thereof. This case highlights the importance of effective multidisciplinary communication and joint input towards clinical decision-making, particularly in complex scenarios, to achieve optimal patient outcomes.

Wu, HH; Elboraey, O et al. (2025). Pericardial cyst: an unexpected diagnosis in a patient presenting with breathlessness. The British Journal of Cardiology. 32, [Online]. Available at: http://dx.doi.org/10.5837/bjc.2025.015 [Accessed 14 July 2026]