Pleura and Lung Transplant Flashcards
Primary neoplasm of the pleura.
Mesothelioma
What is the difference between exudate and transudate?
Exudate is fluid that leaks from vessels with HIGH protein concentration and cellular debris with a high specific gravity. Occurs because of inflammation, increased vascular permeability, or injury to the vasculature.
Transudate is fluid that leaks from vessels with LOW protein content, low specific gravity and usually occurs due to imbalance of starling forces like osmotic pressure. Not a result of injury at the site where the fluid leaves the vessels.
What is empyema?
Purulent pleural exudate resulting from bacterial or mycotic infection in the pleural space.
What is hydrothorax and the most common cause.
Non-inflammatory collections of serous fluid within the pleural cavities. Clear and straw colored.
Most commonly caused by cardiac failure.
Most common cause of Hemothorax and how it is identified.
Caused by ruptured aortic aneurysm or vascular trauma. Identified by large clots.
Main cause of chylothorax
Obstruction of lymph vessels, usually malignant neoplasms
Type of emphysema that can cause pneumothorax.
Paraseptal
What two sites are most common for metastatic spread to the pleura?
- Lung
- Breast
- ovarian to a lesser degree
How is a solitary fibrous tumor identified on gross examination of the pleura?
Pedunculated: attached to pleura by a pedicle
Dense fibrous tissue
What type of tumor should be suspected with recurrent pleural effusion?
Malignant mesothelioma
Biggest risk factor for malignant mesothelioma.
Asbestos exposure
Two major complications of lung transplant.
- Infection
2. Rejection
Two most common infections that occur early after the transplant period.
Fungal
- Candida
- Aspergillus
What are the main immune cell types seen in acute transplant rejection?
Lymphocytes
Plasma cells
