What is the condition of pericarditis primarily characterized by?

Pericarditis is primarily characterized by inflammation of the pericardium, which is the fibrous sac that surrounds the heart. This inflammation can lead to symptoms such as chest pain, which may worsen when lying down or taking deep breaths. The pericardium plays a crucial role in protecting the heart and facilitating its movement. When it becomes inflamed, it can result in various complications, including fluid accumulation or even constrictive pericarditis in more severe cases. The other options refer to different cardiac conditions; for instance, an infection of the heart muscle is known as myocarditis, fluid buildup in the heart chambers is often related to congestive heart failure, and blockage of the coronary arteries leads to ischemic heart disease. Each of these conditions has distinct features and mechanisms, making the characterization of pericarditis unique to pericardial inflammation.