What does pericarditis refer to?

Pericarditis specifically refers to the inflammation of the pericardium, which is the double-walled sac containing the heart and the roots of the major blood vessels. This condition results in pain and discomfort in the chest, which may be exacerbated by certain movements or breathing. Understanding this term is important for recognizing signs and symptoms related to cardiovascular issues, as well as the potential need for further medical evaluation or treatment. The other options describe entirely different conditions related to other systems in the body, making them not applicable to the definition of pericarditis.