Computed tomography of the pericardium and pericardial disease

The spectrum of pericardial abnormalities includes congenital absence, pericardial cyst, pericarditis, effusion, constriction, tamponade, retained foreign body, and neoplasms. Because of it high spatial and temporal resolutions, multiplanar reconstruction capability, and large field of view, computed tomography (CT) is a very useful tool in the comprehensive anatomical and functional evaluation of the pericardium. Knowledge of normal pericardial anatomy, anatomic variants, and imaging appearances of various pericardial abnormalities is essential for accurate diagnoses and characterization. In this pictorial review, the CT appearances of the normal pericardium and pericardial abnormalities are discussed and illustrated.