[Purulent pericarditis in children. A continuously life-threatening disease].

Acute purulent pericarditis in children is usually fatal, if not recognized and adequately treated. The history of three children with acute purulent pericarditis is presented. In every septic child who presents with signs of right heart decompensation, acute purulent pericarditis should be seriously considered. Echocardiography is essential for the diagnosis. If possible, diagnostic pericardiocenthesis should be performed. Experience of the last years suggests that excellent results can be obtained when adequate surgical drainage and antibiotic therapy are combined.