Pleural Malignancy Flashcards
1
Q
Visceral pleura
A
Lungs
2
Q
Parietal pleura
A
Thorax
3
Q
Mediastinum
A
Diaphragm
4
Q
Pleural Effusion
A
Abnormal collection of fluid in pleural space
Large unilateral effusions should raise concern
5
Q
Transudate
A
<30g/l
Caused by systemic conditions that alter hydrostatic pressure or osmotic forces across the pleura
EG. Cardiac failure, cirrhosis, renal failure
6
Q
Exudates
A
> 30g/l
local disease
eg. bacterial pneumonia, TB, abscess, malignancy
7
Q
Mesothelioma
A
Uncommon malignant tumour of lining of lung or abdominal cavity
Exposure to asbestos
8
Q
Mesothelioma symptoms
A
Takes 30-40 years to develop Breathlessness Chest pain Weight loss Fever Sweating Cough
9
Q
Treatment of mesothelioma
A
Pleurodese effusions Radiotherapy Surgery Chemo Palliative care
10
Q
Metastisis
A
Virtually all cancers but mostly lung, breast and upper GI
11
Q
Treatment of metastatic pleural effusion
A
Palliative Repeated pleural taps Drain or peluraodesis Long term pleural cavity Surgical options (abrasion, pleurectomy)
