The pericardium is a normal anatomical structure, while pericarditis is a medical condition involving inflammation of that structure.
Here's a breakdown:
Pericardium vs. Pericarditis
| Feature | Pericardium | Pericarditis |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | The thin, two-layered, fluid-filled sac that surrounds the heart. | Inflammation of the pericardium. |
| State | Normal, healthy tissue. | A disease state. |
| Function | Protects the heart and allows it to move freely within the chest. | N/A (Represents a disruption of the pericardium's normal function). |
| Timeframe | Always present in a healthy individual. | Usually develops suddenly and can last from weeks to months. |
In essence:
- The pericardium is the normal sac surrounding the heart.
- Pericarditis is when the pericardium becomes inflamed. As stated in the provided reference, "Pericarditis is an inflammation of the pericardium, the thin, two-layered, fluid-filled sac that covers the outer surface of your heart. Pericarditis usually develops suddenly and may last from weeks up to several months."
