Management of pericarditis

Pericarditis is an inflammatory syndrome involving pericardium, which is a double-walled sac consisting of two leaves, a serous visceral layer in contact with the myocardium (pericardium) and a parietal fibrous one, delimiting a cavity (pericardial cavity) containing pericardial fluid. Pericarditis may occur isolated or as a manifestation of a systemic disorder. Diagnosis and correct management of pericarditis can be difficult and its natural history is often characterized by a lot of relapses. Treatment of acute pericarditis should target the underlying etiology. The diagnosis is based on characteristic clinical findings, electrocardiogram, and echocardiography. The goals of treatment are relief of pain, resolution of inflammation (and, if present, pericardial effusion), and prevention of recurrence. Despite a significant impairment of the quality of life, pericarditis usually has good long-term outcomes

Management of vertigo: from evidence to clinical practice

Vertigo is a symptom, not a diagnosis and effective diagnosis and management begin with understanding what this symptom may represent. Thus the presence of postural insility includes a differential diagnosis for otologic, neurologic and other medical causes. The objective of this paper is to provide evidence-based recommendations for the proper management of vertigo by multi-parametric analysis of the guidelines available to date

Management of syncope: from evidence to clinical practice

Syncope is defined as a transient loss of consciousness due to temporary global cerebral hypoperfusion. It is characterized by rapid onset, short duration, loss of postural tone possibly causing patient fall, and spontaneous full recovery. Syncope has a high prevalence and incidence within the general population with a relevant impact on both quality of life and health care costs. The diagnosis of syncope is often inaccurate and subject to delay, and management is greatly variable. The main objective of this monograph is to discuss a methodological diagnostic approach to signs and symptoms suggestive of syncope, aiming for a management optimization. The present work is based on a systematic review of recent international guidelines