Non-Traumatic Pericardial Effusion Presenting as Shortness of Breath

Dyspnoea is a very common presentation in the emergency department (ED). Although cardiac and respiratory failures are common causes, we demonstrated the importance to consider non-traumatic pericardial effusion as a differential diagnosis for dyspnoea. Use of the ultrasound in the ED setting can help reach the diagnosis and provide timely and appropriate care for the patient.