Pleural effusion

Pleural Effusion

Refers to any fluid accumulation in the pleural space.

Types of Fluids in Pleural Effusion

Can include purulent exudate (pyothorax), blood (haemothorax), chyle (chylothorax), neoplastic effusions, or pure/modified transudates.

Pure Transudate

Clear fluids with low protein (<2.5 g/dl) and low cell count (<1500/ul), caused by low oncotic pressure or high hydrostatic pressure.

Modified Transudate

Moderately cellular fluids with protein count between 2.5-7.5 g/dl and cell count between 1000-7000/ul, resulting from increased vascular permeability.

Exudate

Highly cellular fluids with protein >3.0 g/dl and cell count >7000/ul, can be septic or aseptic, developing from increased vascular permeability.

Management of Pleural Effusion

Depends on the type of effusion; includes diagnostic thoracentesis, cytology, glucose/lactate concentration analysis, and potentially sending for culture and cytology.

Post-Drainage Imaging

Always repeat imaging following drainage to confirm sufficient fluid drainage and assess pulmonary pathology.