pericardial space

Introduction

The space or potential space between layers of the pericardium. It contains a small amount of pericardial fluid.

Pathology

• Effusion into the pericardial space (pericardial effusion)
• as little as 30 mL in the pericardial space can result in cardiac tamponade

More general terms

• potential cavity

Additional terms

• layers of pericardium
• pericardial effusion
• pericardial fluid