pericarditis
(PAYR-ih-kar-DY-tis)
A condition in which the pericardium (the sac around the heart) becomes inflamed. Pericarditis is usually caused by an infection, but it may also be caused by an autoimmune disorder or by cancer or cancer treatment (such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy). It may also be caused by heart attack, heart surgery, injury to the chest, kidney failure, and certain medicines. The most common symptom of pericarditis is chest pain. Other signs and symptoms may include fever, cough, fast or abnormal heartbeat, trouble breathing, anxiety, fatigue, and swelling of the ankles, feet, and legs. Pericarditis is most common in men aged 20 to 50 years.