Successful management of malignant pericardial effusion in metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the uterine cervix

Malignant pericardial effusion secondary to pericardial metastases from gynecological malignancies represents an infrequent but potentially life threatening problem. A patient with recurrent squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix causing symptomatic pericardial effusion is presented, and the incidence, mechanism, pathophysiology, treatment, and outcomes of malignant pericardial effusion in patients with gynecologic malignancies are reviewed. This case represents only the fourth reported patient with metastatic carcinoma of the cervix in whom the diagnosis of malignant pericardial effusion was made antemortem, and is the longest survivor of treatment. Gratifying results, in terms of improved quality and length of survival, can be obtained in what is often perceived as a preterminal complication. Recommendations for management are presented, stressing radiation therapy and other local measures following initial pericardiocentesis.