392 



PERICARDITIS. 



aneurism existed at the base of the large arterial trunks. The lower pul- 

 monary lobe is thrust upwards, and over the area of dulness pulmonary 

 sounds completely disappear. 



When the heart is compressed by a large hydatid cyst or other lesion, 

 the general and external symptoms are similar to those above described. 



Finally, one last symptom, which appears of some importance, may be 

 mentioned. When animals suffering from pericarditis due to a foreign 

 body are forced to move, the beating of the heart becomes so tumultuous 

 that it can no longer be counted, and even in a state of rest it may rise to 



Fig. 182. — Appearance of an animal suffering from pseudo-pericarditis (infra- 

 pericardial abscess). The dotted outline indicates the space occupied by 

 the heart, which is thrust upwards. 



140 or 150 beats per minute. In cases of pseudo-pericarditis it rarely 

 rises above 90 or 110. 



Diagnosis. The attempt to diagnose this condition accurately must 

 not be regarded merely as a result of scientific curiosity. Under certain 

 circumstances the diagnosis may be of very great importance. While 

 the patient affected with pericarditis due to a foreign body is beyond 

 all hope of recovery, certain cases of pseudo-pericarditis appear amenable 

 to treatment. 



The diagnosis, therefore, is of great importance, and the practitioner 

 should spare no effort to confirm it, bearing in mind the symptoms 

 enumerated, and remembering that the normal sounds of the heart 

 never completely disappear. 



An aseptic exploratory puncture with a long, fine needle will some- 

 times prove of great assistance. 



