Constrictive pericarditis is the result of fibrosis, thickening and adhesion of the pericardium, and is a secondary consequence of chronic pericarditis of many causes. This is a serious medical condition that can lead to heart failure, disability, and even death.

Empyema pericarditis is a bacterial infection of the pericardial cavity. The disease progresses from infectious pericarditis to empyema pericarditis, which, if not treated promptly, becomes constrictive pericarditis.