Pleural Effusion Flashcards
1
Q
What is a transudate effusion?
A
Protein level <25g/l in an effusion
2
Q
What is an exudative effusion?
A
Protein level >35g/l in an effusion
3
Q
What are the causes of a Transudate effusion?
A
Increased venous pressure Cardiac Failure Constrictive pericarditis Fluid overlod Hypothyroidism Meig's syndrome
4
Q
What are the causes of an Exudative effusion?
A
Pneumonia TB Pulmonary Infarction Inflammation Infection
5
Q
When is an effusion detected?
A
When there is more than 500 ml
6
Q
What are the signs of a pleural effusion?
A
Stoney dull on percussion
Diminished breath sounds on affected side
7
Q
What are the signs of a pleural effusion on CXR?
A
Small effusions blunt the costophrenic angles
8
Q
What are the other causes of effusion?
A
Dressler's syndrome Empyema Right heart failure Aortic valve replacement Pancreatitis
9
Q
How is a pleural effusion diagnosed?
A
CXR Pleural aspirate Exudate CT Bronchoscope Echo
