**8. Conclusion**

Pericardial effusion is the abnormal accumulation of fluid within the pericardial sac. The effusion usually accumulates slowly and progressively and presents with sign of chronic cardiac tamponade and right-sided heart failure with lethargy, exercise intolerance, or collapse. Diagnosis by echocardiography is the gold standard test. Pericardiocentesis along with diuretic therapy is effective. The prognosis associated with pericardial effusion varies greatly, depending on the underlying cause.
