How to diagnose pleural effusion?

Pleural effusion is a buildup of fluid between the lung and pleura, caused by various diseases. Thoracentesis is crucial in diagnosis, with pleural fluid analysis providing information on the cause. Exudative effusions are often caused by infections or inflammation, while transudative effusions are caused by imbalances in chest cavity pressures. Other tests on the pleural […]

Causes of pleural effusion?

Pleural effusion is the buildup of fluid in the pleural space around the lungs, caused by respiratory diseases, heart failure, cancer, kidney and liver disease, and inflammatory disorders. Symptoms include shortness of breath and chest pain, and treatment varies depending on the underlying cause. Thoracentesis can be used to remove fluid, and drains, shunts, and […]

Types of pleural disease?

Pleural disease can be fatal and takes many forms, including pleural effusion, pleurisy, and lung cancer. Symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, and coughing. Seeking medical help promptly is important. The lungs are a delicate organ that controls the body’s intake of oxygen. Inside the lungs and throughout the chest cavity, a membranous lining […]

What’s a pleural rub?

A pleural rub is a grating and creaky sound heard when the pleural membranes rub against each other due to inflammation, indicating an inflammatory process in the chest. It can be associated with various medical conditions, and a doctor may need to order medical tests and imaging studies for diagnosis. Treatment options vary depending on […]

What causes pleural effusion?

Pleural effusion can be caused by various diseases, with difficulty breathing being the most common symptom. Identifying whether it is transudative or exudative is the first step in determining the etiology. Treatment is tailored to the specific cause, with the goal of cure or symptomatic relief. Pleural effusion is a manifestation of several diseases and […]

What’s pleural fibrosis?

Pleural fibrosis is the development of fibrous tissue on the pleura, often caused by asbestos exposure or inflammation. In severe cases, it can impair lung function and require surgical removal. Diagnosis is made through chest X-rays and biopsies. Pleural calcifications may also be present. Pleural fibrosis is a condition in which the pleura, the tissue […]

What’s pleural fluid?

Pleural fluid lubricates the lungs for easy movement, but medical conditions can cause excess fluid to build up, leading to pleural effusion. Causes include heart failure, lung cancer, and tuberculosis. Too much fluid can make breathing difficult and lead to infection, but treatment is relatively easy. Pleural fluid is a thin, clear fluid produced in […]

What’s a pleural effusion?

Excess fluid in the pleural cavity, called pleural effusion, can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath and chest pain. Causes include pneumonia, cancer, heart failure, and blood clots. Diagnosis is confirmed through imaging tests and treatment varies depending on the amount of fluid present, ranging from no treatment to surgical removal. The underlying medical […]

What’s a pleural plaque?

Pleural plaque disease is caused by chronic exposure to asbestos fibers, leading to the formation of plaque in the lungs that cannot be removed or repaired. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, including difficulty breathing and pleural effusion, and avoiding further exposure to asbestos. Quitting smoking and promptly treating respiratory infections is also important. Asbestos lung […]

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