Pericardial abscess: diagnosis using two-dimensional echocardiography and CT.

Two cases of pericardial abscess were identified preoperatively using two-dimensional echocardiography and computed tomography (CT). In one patient the diagnosis was confirmed by needle aspiration of pus under CT guidance. Findings in both cases were similar, which suggests a common pathogenetic mechanism. Because purulent pericardial fluid collections are an uncommon condition associated with a high mortality, early echocardiography and if necessary CT should be performed, as prompt institution of appropriate therapy is the best hope for decreasing mortality.