Purulent pericarditis in Papua New Guinea: report of 12 cases and review of the literature in a tropical environment.

Twelve cases of purulent pericarditis (P.P.) are presented. In each case diagnosis was confirmed by aspiration of pus from the pericardial sac. Clinical presentation of this condition is discussed, and therapeutic alternatives are compared. A review of the literature dealing with this condition in a tropical environment is made. It is suggested that in a environment where infectious disease prevails, the diagnosis of this condition is often missed. The importance of early diagnosis and an aggressive approach to management is stressed.