Pleural disease Flashcards
What is a pleural effusion?
When there is a collection of liquid in the chest
Which type of pressure pushes fluid out of the visceral pleura?
Pulmonary arterial pressure
Does the pleura extend beyond the first rib?
Yes
What are the two classes of pleural effusion?
Transudates and exudates
Are transudates usually unilateral or bilateral?
Bilateral
How much liquid is required before a pleural effusion is present on a CXR?
200 ml
Why do you never biopsy up?
As you may hit an intercostal vein artery or nerve (VAN)
If there remains to be no diagnosis after a biopsy for pleural disease, what do you need to do?
A thoracoscopy
What is the definition of a pneumothorax?
Presence of air within the pleural cavity
What is a tension pneumothorax?
A hole in the surface of the lung, and a flap of lung has formed over it
What is regarded as a small pneumothorax?
Rim of air under 2cm
Where is an intercostal chest drain inserted into?
4th intercostal space, mid-axillary line
Which type of pressure pushes fluid out of the visceral pleura?
Pulmonary arterial pressure
Does the pleura extend beyond the first rib?
Yes
What are the two classes of pleural effusion?
Transudates and exudates
