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Compression of the heart due to excessive fluid or blood accumulation in the pericardial sac is known as tamponade. This condition restricts the heart's ability to fill properly, leading to reduced cardiac output and, potentially, life-threatening complications. The pericardium is a double-walled sac containing the heart, and when it fills with fluid—whether from trauma, infection, or other causes—it creates pressure on the heart, making it difficult for the muscle to function effectively.

Pericarditis refers to inflammation of the pericardium, which may lead to fluid accumulation but does not specifically describe the compression effect. Infarction refers to tissue death due to loss of blood supply, typically in the context of heart attacks. Cardiomyopathy is a condition that affects the heart muscle itself, leading to various types of heart dysfunction, but it does not encompass the fluid buildup aspect central to tamponade. Thus, understanding the relationship between fluid accumulation and heart compression clarifies why tamponade is the appropriate term for this condition.