Pleural effusion resident survival guide

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Twinkle Singh, M.B.B.S. [2]

Definition

Pleural effusion is defined as the presence of excessive fluid in the pleural cavity resulting from transudation or exudation from the pleural surfaces.

Causes

Life Threatening Causes

Life-threatening causes include conditions which may result in death or permanent disability within 24 hours if left untreated.

• Pulmonary embolism
• Congestive heart failure

Common Causes

Transudate

• Left ventricular failure
• Cirrhosis
• Pulmonary embolism
• Hypoalbuminemia

Exudate

• Bacterial pneumonia
• Pulmonary embolism
• Malignancy
• Autoimmune diseases
• Pleuritis

Initial Diagnosis

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