Pleural Disease Flashcards
Define pleural effusion
abnormal collection of fluid in the pleural space
How can you diagnose a pleural effusion?
pleural aspiration with ultrasound guidance & CXR
State five ways the fluid may be described
- straw coloured
- bloody
- turbid/milky
- foul smelling
- food particles
What does a bilateral pleural effusion suggest?
- Left ventricular failure
- Pulmonary emboli
- Drugs
- Systemic path
What are the two types of fluid?
Transudate and Exudate
Describe transudates
Protein < 30g/l
- heart failure
- liver cirrhosis
- kidney failure
Describe exudates
Protein > 30g/l - malignancy - infection - pulmonary infarct !! look for serious pathology !!
What can the fluid pH tell us?
< 7.3 suggests inflammation
< 7.2 requires infection draining
Will the glucose be high or low in infection?
low
How can a pleural effusion be managed?
Treat underlying cause, it’s not always necessary to drain unless the fluid is purulent
Define empyema
Pus in the pleural space
Name the two types of pleural malignancy
- primary (mesothelioma)
- secondary
Describe mesothelioma
Uncommon malignant tumour of the lining of the lung or occasionally the abdominal cavity.
Increased risk if exposed to asbestos.
What are the investigations for a mesothelioma?
imaging
pleural fluid aspiration
biopsy
What are the symptoms of a mesothelioma?
chest pain weight loss fever sweating cough SOB
