Which of the following describes the condition of pericarditis?

Pericarditis refers specifically to the inflammation of the pericardium, which is the fibrous sac surrounding the heart. This condition can result from various causes, including infections, autoimmune diseases, and post-cardiac surgery complications. The inflammation can lead to a range of symptoms, such as chest pain, which may be sharp and worsen with deep breathing or coughing.

Understanding the role of the pericardium is crucial as it helps protect the heart, anchors it in place, and limits its motion. When this area becomes inflamed, it can cause discomfort and potentially lead to complications like pericardial effusion or constrictive pericarditis.

The other options describe different cardiovascular conditions that do not pertain to pericarditis. For instance, blockage of coronary arteries relates to coronary artery disease, weakening of heart valves pertains to valvular heart disease, and thickening of arterial walls is characteristic of atherosclerosis. Each of these conditions affects the cardiovascular system differently and highlights the importance of distinguishing between various cardiac pathologies.