An unusual complication of pneumococcal pneumonia: acute tamponade due to purulent pericarditis.

The incidence of purulent pericarditis has declined, however mortality remains high. Few cases so far of cardiac tamponade related with purulent pericarditis which is a rare complication of pneumococcal pneumonia have been published in the literature. We report a case of the development of cardiac tamponade due to pneumococcal pneumonia and emphasize the importance of early recognition, prompt institution of appropriate antibiotic therapy, and early surgical drainage for survival.