Constrictive Pericarditis

How is the condition diagnosed?

A medical history and physical examination often make the healthcare provider suspect this condition. In some cases, special imaging tests, such as a CT scan, can make the diagnosis.

In other cases, the diagnosis is much more difficult to make. Special tests or procedures may be needed. Cardiac catheterization involves inserting a thin tube called a catheter into a vein in the groin or neck. This tube is then slipped through the vein into the heart. Special blood pressure measurements, and even a biopsy of the heart muscle can be obtained for analysis with this procedure.