Pericarditis, an inflammation of the outer lining of the heart, can present with a variety of symptoms, including chest pain, shortness of breath and a rapid pulse. However, there is another sign associated with this disease that can be detected when examining the heart - systolic pericardial tone.
Systolic pericardton is an extratone that is recorded during systole, that is, at the moment of heart contraction. It is most often observed at the Botkin-Erb point, which is located at the apex of the heart and corresponds to the attachment point of the outer shell of the heart to the central vein.
Systolic pericardton can be detected with pericarditis - inflammation of the outer lining of the heart. In this case, the outer shell becomes thicker and can limit the ability of the heart to expand during systole. This leads to the appearance of an additional sound, which is called systolic pericardton.
Detection of systolic pericardial tone during cardiac examination may help in the diagnosis of pericarditis. However, additional studies such as electrocardiography and echocardiography are required to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment for pericarditis depends on its type and cause. In some cases, the use of anti-inflammatory drugs or antibiotics may be required. More severe cases may require pericardiocentesis, a procedure that removes excess fluid from the pericardium to help relieve pressure on the heart.
Thus, systolic pericardton is one of the signs of pericarditis that can be detected during examination of the heart. If you notice these symptoms, including chest pain and rapid pulse, see your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.