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Pleural Effusion

The pleural space lies between the lung and chest wall and normally contains a very thin layer of fluid, which serves as a coupling system. A pleural effusion is present when there is an excess quantity of fluid in the pleural space.

Etiology

Pleural fluid accumulates when pleural fluid formation exceeds pleural fluid absorption. Normally, fluid enters the pleural space from the capillaries in the parietal pleura and is removed via the lymphatics situated in the parietal pleura. Fluid can also enter the pleural space from the interstitial spaces of the lung via the visceral pleura or from the peritoneal cavity via small holes in the diaphragm. The lymphatics have the capacity to absorb 20 times more fluid than is normally formed. Accordingly, a pleural effusion may develop when there is excess pleural fluid formation (from the interstitial spaces of the lung, the parietal pleura, or the peritoneal cavity) or when there is decreased fluid removal by the lymphatics.

Transudate vs Exudate

Transudative and exudativel effusions are distinguished by measuring the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and protein levels in the  fluid. Exudative l effusions meet at least one of the following criteria, whereas transudative effusions meet none:

1. fluid protein/serum protein >0.5

2. fluid LDH/serum LDH >0.6

3. fluid LDH more than two-thirds normal upper limit for serum

Downloads

THE PLEURA

PHYSIOLOGY OF PLEURAL FLUID PRODUCTION AND BENIGN PLEURAL EFFUSION.

Pleural Effusions

The undiagnosed pleural effusion

Pleural Empyema Management

Bonus Powerpoints

Pleural Effusion.ppt – Pleural Effusion

pleural effusion – PowerPoint Presentation

Pleural effusion in the mechanically ventilated patient

The management of empyema the practical vs. ideal approach

EVALUATION OF THE COIN SIGN AS A DIAGNOSTIC TEST OF PLEURAL EFFUSION.