Pleural Effusion Flashcards
1
Q
What is Pleural effusion?
A
FLuid build up in the pleural cavity
Usually less than 20ml in normal lungs
2
Q
What are the clinical signs of pleural effusion in an x-ray?
A
Fluid is white small amount (500ml) loss of Costo-phrenic angle
Fluid line visible the more fluid, tracking up pleura laterally
Displacement pushing mediastinum
3
Q
What are the clinical signs of pleural effusion in auscultation?
A
Quiet breath sounds over PE
Bronchial breathing just above fluid level
4
Q
What are the main causes of pleural effusion?
A
Disturbed osmotic or hydrostatic pressure in plasma Changes in membrane permeability Malignancy Heart, kidney, liver failure Abdominal/ cardio thoracic surgery Pneumonia TB
