An unusual presentation of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia with peri-cardial effusion causing cardiac tamponade

Abstract

Peri-cardial effusion is most commonly associated with tuberculous infection in the developing world. Peri-cardial effusion causes symptoms when it is large or when it has accumulated rapidly. Non-tuberculous causes of peri-cardial effusion include bacterial infections, uraemia, viral infections, rheumatic fever, connective tissue disorders, post – peri-cardiotomy syndromes and malignancy. We present a case of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia first presenting as a large peri-cardial effusion causing tamponade.