COVID-19 exacerbating ESRD induced pericardial effusion requiring pericardial window: A case report

INTRODUCTION: Pericardial effusion can lead to cardiac tamponade requiring immediate management. Pericardial windows are an effective measure to surgically drain recurrent effusions. PRESENTATION OF CASE: We present a case of a 53-year-old male with recurrent pericardial effusion secondary to ESRD and exacerbated by COVID-19 infection, describing the successful management of an uncommon clinical scenario. A sub-xiphoid pericardial window and right sided thoracostomy was performed. DISCUSSION: There are limited case reports highlighting recurrent pericardial effusion management, secondary to ESRD and COVID-19 in a post renal transplant patient, through a subxiphoid pericardial window. CONCLUSION: COVID-19 infection can exacerbate pericardial effusion in a patient with ESRD, post renal transplant. Preventing cardiac tamponade, a sub-xiphoid pericardial window remains an effective measure in treating recurrent pericardial effusion.