What serious complication can arise from untreated pericarditis?

When pericarditis, which is the inflammation of the pericardium (the fibrous sac surrounding the heart), goes untreated, one of the most concerning complications that can develop is cardiac tamponade. This condition occurs when fluid accumulates in the pericardial space, exerting pressure on the heart and impeding its ability to function effectively. As the fluid builds up, it can lead to reduced cardiac output and consequently result in symptoms such as low blood pressure, chest pain, and shortness of breath.

Cardiac tamponade is a critical emergency situation that requires prompt intervention to relieve the pressure and restore normal heart function. While heart failure, arrhythmia, and valvular heart disease can be related to other cardiovascular issues or can occur as secondary complications of several heart disorders, they do not arise as directly or specifically from untreated pericarditis in the same immediate and life-threatening manner as cardiac tamponade.