Hemophilus influenzae pericarditis in adults.

We saw an unusual case of spontaneous Hemophilus influenzae purulent pericarditis in an adult. Counterimmunoelectrophoresis (CIE) of the pericardial fluid may be used to make an early, accurate diagnosis. Treatment should include pericardectomy and immediate use of both ampicillin sodium and chloramphenicol sodium succinate, until the sensitivity of the organism is known.