Pleural Effusion

Question 1

Transudative

Answer 1

Fluid that has low protein content. In the case of a pleural effusion, it is caused by fluid leaking into the pleural space.

Question 2

Exudative

Answer 2

Fluid that contains fibrin and white blood cells. In the case of a pleural effusion, it is caused by an inflammatory process.

Question 3

Normal Pleural Fluid

Answer 3

Total volume - 16 mils, 8 on each lobe and can’t cross

Total protein concentration - 1.3 - 1.4 grams

Question 4

Hemothorax

Answer 4

A collection of blood in the pleural space, usually caused by blunt trauma to the chest.

Question 5

Chylothorax

Answer 5

Milky liquid produced from food in the small intestine during digestion. Common cause is cancer (tumor) blocking intestine.

Question 6

Pleurisy

Answer 6

Inflammation of the pleura with or without pleural effusion. Causes deposition of fibrinous exudate or fibrothorax

Question 7

Empyema

Answer 7

Pus in the pleural cavity. Caused by inflammation

Question 8

Thoracentesis

Answer 8

• A procedure used to remove fluid from the pleural space

- Insert chest tube in the 5th to 7th intercostal space in maxillary line when draining large amounts of fluid

Question 9

Pleurodesis

Answer 9

A surgical procedure that is used to cause visceral and parietal pleura to adhere to each other. It is used to treat and prevent pleural effusions.

Question 10

Pleural Effusion CXR

Answer 10

• Blunting of the costophrenic angle
• Fluid level on the affected side
• Depressed Diagram
• Mediastinal shift (possibly) to unaffected side
• Atelectasis
• Meniscus sign