Pleural

Question 0

Diagnosis for pleural effusion

Answer 0

X-ray , CT, Ultrasound

Thoracentesis***

Question 1

Light’s criteria distinguishes between transudate and exudate. What are the criteria?

Answer 1

Pleural fluid protein > 0.5
Pleural fluid protein > 0.6
Pleural fluid LDH (lactate dehydrogenase) 2/3 above normal limit

Any YES then it’s EXUDATE
all NO then TRANSUDATE

Question 2

Pleural effusions commonly seen in

Answer 2

CHF
Cirrhosis (right sided)
Infection (TB)
Secondary to malignancy***
Neoplasia (mesothelioma ~ asbestos ~ pleural tumor)

Question 3

Lung abscess with acidosis and glucose <3.3mmol/L indicative of what?

Answer 3

Pneumonic effusion

Check gram stain

Question 4

Elevated ADA (adenosine deaminase) in effusion indicative of what?

Answer 4

Tuberculosis

Question 5

CEA in effusion indicative of what?

Answer 5

Malignancy

Question 6

What is tension pneumothorax?

Answer 6

One way valve.
Positive pressure I’m pleura space. Causes venous obstruction and thus decreased cardiac output.

Immediate thoracentesis. Don’t wait for X-ray.