MEDIASTINAL LYMPHOSARCOMA SIMULATING PERICARDITIS

ABSTRACT: Berg, M., Wilander, E. and Eriksson, A. (Departments of Paediatrics and Pathology, University Hospital, Uppsala, and Department of Paediatrics, Central Hospital, Boden, Sweden). Mediastinal lymphosarcoma simulating pericarditis. Acta Paediatr Scand, 64: 873, 1975–A case of lymphosarcoma of the heart in a 10-year-old boy is presented. The clinical picture simulated a pericarditis. Prednisolone had a remarkably good temporary effect. Post-mortem examination showed a highly differentiated lymphosarcoma invading the pericardium and myocardium from a primary mediastinal localisation. Cytologic examination for malignant cells in the pericardial fluid must not be forgotten in a case of unexplained pericardial effusion.