When the pericardium fills with blood, it produces a condition called cardiac tamponade, which can be rapidly lethal. Why is this condition so dangerous? High pressure in the systemic and pulmonary circuits often results in ventricular hypertrophy, in which the ventricle enlarges to pump against greater force. Which side(s) of the heart would be affected by high pressure in the pulmonary circuit? Which side(s) of the heart would be affected by high pressure in the systemic circuit? Explain.