Asymptomatic Hypothyroidism with Concomitant Viral Pericarditis Presenting as Acute Cardiac Tamponade

A case ofa young woman who presented to emergency department with severe abdominal pain and shock is reported here. The patient was found to have pericardia Itamponade due to massive pericardial effusion. On further evaluation, the etiology of this effusion was found to be secondary to hypothyroidism with concomitant acute viral pericarditis leading to a fulminant tamponade. The presentation, differential diagnosis and management ofpericardial effusion and tamponade secondary to hypothyroidism and viral pericarditis are discussed. The diagnosis ofhypothyroidism in conjunction with acute viral pericarditis should be considered in patients presenting with unexplained pericardial effusion and tamponade.