Autoregulation of the Coronary Microcirculation in the Presence or Absence of Large Pericardial Effusion

Although the impact of the presence of large circumferential pericardial effusion (LCPE) on the intracoronary pressure assessment of coronary artery disease (CAD) has been reported, the changes in comprehensive coronary physiology including coronary microcirculatory system according to the presence or absence of LCPE remain unclear. This paper depicts the serial changes in comprehensive coronary physiological assessment immediately after pericardial drainage in a patient with LCPE and CAD. It is important to recognize that the presence of LCPE may influence coronary circulation, requiring careful assessment of CAD.