Massive purulent pericardial effusion presenting as atrial fibrillation with rapid rate: case report and review of the literature.

Background: Although pericardial effusion with afib is not rare, the combination of purulent pericardial effusion presenting as afib is not a common occurrence particularly in the developing world.The more common symptoms associated with purulent pericardial effusion are fever, dyspenia, and tachycardia. Without prompt recognition followed by antibiotics and surgical drainage, tamponade, and shock can potentially lead to death.