Tuberculous pericarditis: a case report on autopsy

Pericarditis is a rare manifestation of tuberculosis. Despite availability of effective treatment, tuberculosis is still a major cause of mortality in India. Some cases of tuberculosis are not identified until patient has died and autopsy has been done. A case of 40 year old female who died due to chronic illness and tuberculosis has not been diagnosed antemortem is reported here with. A definitive or proven diagnosis is based on demonstration of tubercle bacilli in pericardial fluid or on histological section of pericardium. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are necessary to prevent mortality.