Which of the following can cause a pericardial effusion?

Pericardial effusion is the accumulation of fluid in the pericardial cavity, which can lead to increased pressure on the heart and affect its function. Pericarditis, which is the inflammation of the pericardium, is a well-known cause of pericardial effusion. Inflammatory processes can lead to increased vascular permeability and the production of fluid that accumulates in the pericardial space. This effusion can be a direct complication of pericarditis itself or might be secondary to infections, autoimmune conditions, or other inflammatory states.

While hypertension, coronary artery disease, and myocardial infarction all are associated with cardiovascular complications, they do not directly lead to the formation of pericardial effusion in the same manner as pericarditis does. Hypertension primarily affects systemic circulation and can lead to ventricular hypertrophy over time but does not directly cause fluid accumulation in the pericardial cavity. Coronary artery disease and myocardial infarction may lead to other complications, such as heart failure or ischemia, which can cause changes in cardiac function but are not direct causes of pericardial effusion. Thus, among the options provided, pericarditis is the most relevant condition that directly