Pericardial effusion is a very serious condition in which there is an increased level of fluid in the pericardial sac. The pericardial sac is the membranous tissue that surrounds your dog’s heart.

Pericardial effusion impacts the ability of your dog’s heart to function properly. Thus, any drastic reduction in your dog’s energy level, including sudden collapse, could potentially be a sign of pericardial effusion. Trouble breathing, pale gums, weakness and lack of appetite are also potential symptoms.

Pericardial effusion usually develops secondary to other causes. Common primary causes of pericardial effusion include hemangiosarcoma, constrictive pericarditis, and pericardial cysts.

A combination of clinical findings, blood work, x-rays and echocardiograms are required to diagnose pericardial effusion.

In order to treat pericardial effusion, the excess fluid must be drained from your dog’s pericardial sac. Further treatment is needed to address the specific underlying cause. Depending on the cause of the pericardial effusion, the pericardial sac may be removed as a treatment to relieve pressure on the heart.

There is no known way to prevent pericardial effusion.

No, you cannot get pericardial effusion from your dog.