In which demographic is acute pericarditis most commonly seen?

Acute pericarditis is most commonly seen in middle-aged adults due to several underlying factors that contribute to the condition's prevalence in this demographic. This age group tends to experience a variety of autoimmune disorders, infectious diseases, and conditions such as myocardial infarction or heart surgery, which can lead to inflammation of the pericardium, the membrane surrounding the heart.

Moreover, middle-aged adults are more likely to experience the risk factors associated with acute pericarditis, such as prior heart conditions, which can make this demographic more susceptible. While pericarditis can occur in individuals of any age, the incidence peaks in adults between the ages of 30 and 50, making middle-aged adults the most affected demographic for this condition.