In the consideration of cardiac tamponade, which of the following statements is most true?

In the consideration of cardiac tamponade, which of the following statements is most true?
A- Bradycardia is common
B- Early diastolic descent (y descent) is exacerbated
C- Pulsus paradoxus is pathognomonic
D- Renal failure is a recognized complication
E- The apex beat is always absent

Answer:
D- Renal failure is a recognized complication

Discussion:
Tachycardia is common in the presentation of cardiac tamponade, and the apex beat is frequently palpable.
The y descent is absent, though pulsus paradoxus may or may not be present.
Pulsus paradoxus is defined as an inspiratory systolic fall in arterial pressure of 10mmHg or more. Pulsus paradoxus may also be present in massive PE, haemorrhagic shock, COPD and severe hypotension.
Renal failure is a recognized complication of tamponade.