General Information About Pleural Effusion
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
Commonly known as 'fluid in the lungs', it is the condition where a pathologically excessive amount of fluid accumulates in the space between the membranes that allow the lungs to glide smoothly during respiration.
If the fluid leaks due to pressure in the vessels (heart/kidney failure), it is clear and watery (Transudate). If the fluid leaks due to an infection in the lung lining (pneumonia/tuberculosis) or cancer tumors, it is inflamed and rich in protein (Exudate).
A sharp, stabbing pain in the chest (pleuritic pain) especially when taking a deep breath or coughing, shortness of breath due to the accumulated fluid compressing the lung, and a dry cough.
The fluid is not inside the air sacs of the lung (edema), but inside the outermost protective membrane (sac) of the lung. However, this fluid squeezes the lung from the outside, preventing it from expanding (taking a breath).
When the physician listens with a stethoscope, no breath sounds can be heard in the area where the fluid is present. Definitive diagnosis is made when a chest X-ray shows the fluid-filled part completely white (opaque), and confirmed with a Chest Ultrasound.
For diagnosis and treatment, under local anesthesia, a needle/catheter is inserted between the ribs to draw the excess internal fluid out (into a syringe or bag). The extracted fluid is sent to a laboratory to investigate the cause (cancer/infection), and the patient immediately breathes easily as the lung re-expands.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
