What condition is indicated by the inflammation of the membrane around the heart?

The condition characterized by inflammation of the membrane surrounding the heart is known as pericarditis. The pericardium is a double-walled sac that contains the heart and the roots of the major blood vessels. When it becomes inflamed, it can lead to symptoms such as sharp chest pain, which may be aggravated by deep breathing or coughing, and it can also lead to complications such as the accumulation of fluid around the heart (pericardial effusion).

Understanding the terminology is key; "peri-" refers to around, and "carditis" relates to the heart, indicating the specific location of the inflammation. This specificity distinguishes pericarditis from other inflammatory conditions affecting different areas. For example, pneumonia involves inflammation of the lungs, peritonitis refers to inflammation of the peritoneum (the lining of the abdominal cavity), and endocarditis is inflammation of the inner heart lining. Knowing these distinctions helps clarify the nature and location of various inflammatory conditions within the body.