UMEM Educational Pearls

Question

The following clip is one of three findings found in Beck’s triad. Name all three findings and how often are all 3 signs present for patients with pericardial tamponade?

Answer

  • Beck's triad
    • Jugular venous distention
    • Muffled (or distant) heart sounds
    • Low blood pressure
  • None of these findings is sensitive or specific for the diagnosis of pericardial tamponade
  • Only 10-40% of patients with pericardial tampaonde will have all three signs present

References

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Spodick, D. Cardiac Tamponade Revisited: A Postmortem Look at a Cautionary Case: Tex Heart Inst J. 2007; 34(3): 347–351.