Recurrent Pericarditis: New Clues from Italian-German Study

Italian-German Medical Team Finds New Clues About the Cause of Recurrent Pericarditis

October 10, 2025 – Scientists from Italy and Germany have identified a potential new connection in the growth of recurrent pericarditis – inflammation of the tissue around the heart. The research focuses on antibodies that block a substance which normally prevents inflammation in the body.

Pericarditis is treatable when detected early, but can be life-threatening if left undiagnosed. In certain specific cases, it resolves only to return months later. The study, published in JAMA Network Open, examined samples from 142 patients with pericarditis from the Italian PERIPLO study.

Researchers found that over half of patients with active pericarditis had antibodies blocking the antagonist of the interleukin-1 receptor (IL-1Ra). “If the antagonist of this interleukin-1 is suppressed, all doors are literally open to the inflammatory messenger substance,” explains PD Christoph Kessel from the University of Münster.This disruption of the body’s natural inflammatory balance appears to promote recurrent pericarditis.

The team observed that these antibodies disappeared as inflammation subsided and patients’ anti-inflammatory defenses recovered, suggesting a temporary link to disease flare-ups.

Did you know? – Pericarditis affects an estimated 1-5% of people experiencing chest pain in emergency rooms,making accurate diagnosis and treatment crucial.

“This study is a promising basis for further research to shed more light on the role of the IL-1Ra antibody and thus possibly find new therapeutic approaches against the disease,” researchers state.

Key Findings:

• Antibodies blocking IL-1Ra where detected in over half of patients with active pericarditis.
• These antibodies disrupt the balance between inflammation and its inhibition.
• Antibody levels correlated with disease activity, disappearing as inflammation subsided.

Pro tip: – Early diagnosis of pericarditis is key to preventing complications. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience sharp, stabbing chest pain that worsens when breathing or lying down.

Study Collaboration: University of milan, University of Münster, and University and University Hospital of Saarland.

contact:

Prof. Dr. Lorenz thurner
[email protected]

Original Publication:

Wu MA, Kessel C, Fadle N, et al. IL-1 Receptor Antagonist Antibodies in Idiopathic Recurrent Pericarditis.JAMA Netw open. 2025;8(10):e2536691. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.36691

Reader question: – Could this discovery lead to a simple blood test to diagnose recurrent pericarditis? What are your thoughts?