Which initial investigations should be performed to confirm the presence of pericardial effusion in a patient with suspected cardiac symptoms?

To confirm the presence of pericardial effusion in a patient with suspected cardiac symptoms, the primary initial investigation is echocardiography ¹,³,⁴. This imaging technique is crucial for assessing cardiac function ¹. In the broader context of suspected cardiac symptoms, particularly those suggestive of heart failure, measuring N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is also an initial step ³. Elevated NT-proBNP levels would prompt referral for specialist assessment and transthoracic echocardiography ³.