Hammer Y, et al. - This study hypothesized a seasonal pattern in the incidence of acute idiopathic pericarditis. The analyzed data was suggestive of a seasonal pattern in the incidence of acute idiopathic pericarditis, with a distinct late winter peak. In addition, no seasonal pattern was identified for recurrent episodes.

Methods

• Researchers searched the computerized database of a tertiary, university-affiliated hospital for all patients admitted with a first episode of acute idiopathic pericarditis between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2015, excluding those with a nonviral etiology for the pericarditis.

Results

• A total of 175 patients (75% male) ages 19 to 86 years (median = 50.0 ± 18.2 years) were included in the final cohort.
• Findings demonstrated that the incidence of the disease was twice as high during the colder half of the year (October–March) than the warmer half, peaking in the first quarter (January–March, P = 0.001).
• In each of the 6 years examined, this first-quarter peak was observed.
• Among patients who acquired pericarditis during peak versus nonpeak quarters, no differences were seen in baseline characteristics, peak body temperature, white blood cell count, C-reactive protein level, or frequency of myocardial involvement or liver enzyme elevation.
• Data reported no seasonal pattern for recurrent episodes of pericarditis (n = 57).