Clinical Diagnosis · Cardiovascular System · Hard

Haemopericardium

Meaning: Accumulation of blood within the sac surrounding the heart, which can compress it and impair filling.

In practice: Following a stab wound to the chest, bedside ultrasound revealed haemopericardium causing cardiac tamponade.

Word parts

Many medical words are built from Greek and Latin parts like these, so learning a few helps you work out new terms.

Two questions on related clinical diagnosis words.

Which word means: A state of abnormally elevated mood, energy and reduced need for sleep.

Which word means: Unusual paleness of the skin or mucous membranes, often a sign of anaemia or shock.

One medical word a day, then a quick three-question quiz. Free on iPhone, or play in your browser on Android and computer.