Pleural Effusion Flashcards
What is a pleural effusion?
A collection of fluid in the pleural cavity between the parietal and visceral pleura
What is an empyema?
An infected collection of fluid in the pleural space
Two types of pleural effusion
transudate and exudate
What is transudate effusion?
systemic factors are involved in the accumulation i.e. partial pressures
What is an exudate effusion?
local factors are altered i.e. inflammation of lung
Which effusion type results in a protein and LDL rich effusion?
Exudate
Differentiating factors between exudate and transudate
Exudate: Protein >30, LDH >200, unilateral, coloured
Transudate: protein <30, LDH< 200, bilateral, clear fluid
Causes of exudate effusion
LOCAL CHANGES
bacterial infection etc
Causes of transudate effusion
SYSTEMIC CHANGES
organ failure
impairment etc
Presentation of PE
can be asymptomatic
pleural chest pain
dyspnoea
cough
Signs seen in PE
Tracheal deviation AWAY from effusion reduced expansion dullness to percussion reduced air entry bronchial breathing ABOVE effusion reduced vocal resonance
Investigations to consider in PE
Suspected > CXR > Confirm with USS > diagnostic aspiration > aspiration tests + full blood screen
Mx of PE
Treat underlying condition
Drain if symptomatic
Chemical pleurodiesis if recurrent
