Which etiology is most often associated with pericarditis?

Viral infection is the most common etiology associated with pericarditis due to the prevalence of viruses such as Coxsackievirus, echovirus, and influenza virus that can lead to this inflammatory condition. Viral infections can incite an immune response that results in inflammation of the pericardial sac, leading to symptoms like chest pain and difficulty breathing.

Though bacterial infections can also cause pericarditis, they are less common in comparison to viral causes. Other options, such as recent surgery and prolonged IV use, might contribute to pericardial effusion or other complications, but they are not leading causes of pericarditis itself.