CRP and pericardial effusion: All other markers were significantly higher in group 1: history of pericardial effusion (79% vs 55%, P < 0.01), EKG changes (18% vs 5%, P = 0.02), elevated C-reactive protein (71% vs 20%, P < 0.01), elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (62% vs 13%, P < 0.01), pericardial chest pain (P < 0.01), and pericardial rub (P = 0.01).