Pericardium — ECG/EKG Terminology

Definition: Double-layered membrane surrounding the heart.

Key Facts

• Fibroserous sac that surrounds and protects the heart.
• Limits acute chamber overdistension and provides low-friction motion.
• Inflammation causes pericarditis and can progress to effusion or tamponade.

ECG Connection: Pericardial inflammation may cause diffuse ST elevation and PR depression.

Why It Matters: Recognizing pericarditis-type ECG patterns helps distinguish non-occlusive ST elevation from STEMI.