ARDMS Echo Pericardial Disease

Question 1

What is the normal volume of pericardial fluid in a healthy adult?

Accepted Answer

15–50 mL

Answer

5–10 mL

Answer

50–100 mL

Answer

100–150 mL

Question 2

On the parasternal long-axis view, how is a pericardial effusion distinguished from a left pleural effusion?

Accepted Answer

Pericardial effusion is bounded anteriorly by the descending aorta

Answer

Pericardial effusion crosses posterior to the descending aorta

Answer

Pleural effusion appears only during systole

Answer

Pericardial effusion is always larger than pleural effusion

Question 3

According to standard echocardiographic grading, a small pericardial effusion is defined as an echo-free space measuring less than:

Accepted Answer

10 mm

Answer

5 mm

Answer

15 mm

Answer

20 mm

Question 4

Which condition is characterized by fibrous thickening, scarring, and sometimes calcification of the pericardium that impairs cardiac filling?

Accepted Answer

Constrictive pericarditis

Answer

Pericardial effusion

Answer

Cardiac tamponade

Answer

Pericardial cyst

Question 5

What is the most common echocardiographic finding in acute pericarditis?

Accepted Answer

Pericardial effusion

Answer

Pericardial thickening > 4 mm

Answer

Paradoxical septal motion

Answer

Dilated inferior vena cava

Question 6

Which echocardiographic appearance best describes a large circumferential pericardial effusion?

Accepted Answer

Echo-free space surrounding all cardiac chambers

Answer

Hyperechoic rim surrounding the heart

Answer

Increased echogenicity within the pericardial sac

Answer

Septal bounce on inspiration

Question 7

Pericardial cysts are benign congenital lesions most commonly found at which location on echocardiography?

Accepted Answer

Right cardiophrenic angle

Answer

Left cardiophrenic angle

Answer

Posterior mediastinum near the pulmonary veins

Answer

Anterior to the aortic root