CONSTRICTIVE PERICARDITIS - Chronic inflammation of the pericardial sac (pericarditis) can lead to scarring and fibrosis of the pericardium. Due to this process, the pericardium can interfere with the hearts ability to pump blood into the systemic circulation. Causes include tuberculosis infection, radiation therapy, cardiac surgery, viral infection, or autoimmune disease. Symptoms are those of right-sided congestive heart failure. Surgery to cut the pericardium may be necessary. Complications include cardiac tamponade and pulmonary edema. See also pericardial sac.