[Customized management of pericarditis]

Abstract

Pericarditis is a disease for which clinical criteria can be used to direct ambulatory or hospitalized management. Acute pericarditis is the most frequent form of pericardial disease and recurrence is the most common complication. Current management is largely based on empirical experience but randomized controlled trails are beginning to be appear that have enabled the elaboration of certain recommendations. The use of colchicine is the most recent development in the pharmacological treatment of this affection. Low doses of colchicine, adapted for weight and potential side effects, seem to reduce rates of recurrence. Recommended length of treatment is 3 months for acute pericarditis and 6 months for recurrent pericarditis. Ongoing trials may further clarify the role of this molecule in the management of this condition.