Chapter 8: Recognizing a Pleural Effusion Flashcards
What are Pleural Effusions?
They are fluid that has collected between the visceral and parietal pleura; the fluid can be transudate or exudate
How many mL are required to blunt the posterior costophrenic sulcus?
75 mL
How many mL are required to blunt the lateral costophrenic sulcus?
200 to 300 mL
How many Liters of fluid will cause opacification of the entire hemithorax?
2L
What is a subpulmonic effusion?
most pleural effusions start as this; collection of fluid in the pleural space between the hemidiaphragm and the base of the lung
What does a subpulmonic effusion form as the amount of fluid increases?
a meniscus shape
What can very large pleural effusions cause?
They will act like a large mass and shift the mobile mediastinum structures AWAY from the side of the effusion
What is a loculate pleural effusion?
A pleural effusion that occurs with pleural adhesions and the fluid assumes an unusual appearance or occurs in atypical places
What is a pseudotumor?
a type of effusion that occurs in the fissures of the lung and is mot frequently secondary to congestive heart failure; it will clear when the underlying failure is treated
Where are laminar effusions best recognized?
at the lung base just above the costophrenic angles
Why do laminar effusions occur?
CHF or lymphangitic spread of malignancy
What does a hydropneumothorax consist of?
air and increased fluid in pleural space
How is a hydropneumothorax recognized?
on an upright chest, it will appear straight, air-fluid interface; there will be no meniscus shape
What are some causes of excess formation of fluid that cause a Pleural Effusion?
CHF
Hypoproteinemia
Parapneumonic effusions
Hypersensitivity reactions
What are some causes of decreased resorption of fluid that cause a Pleural effusion?
lymphangitic blockade due to tumor
Elevated central venous pressure
Decreased intrapleural pressure
