What Could Be the Causes of Pleural Effusion?
The pleural effusion is a condition in which the amount of fluid between the pleural layers increases. This phenomenon can be unilateral or bilateral and may indicate various health problems. The organs located in the thoracic cavity, such as the lungs, heart, and major vessels, are crucial for the body’s proper functioning. The pleura surrounding the lungs plays a key role in the process of breathing. This double membrane adheres to the inner side of the lungs, while its outer portion is attached to the chest wall. There is only a minimal amount of fluid between the two membranes, allowing the lungs to move with the expansion of the chest.
Under normal circumstances, the pleura’s fluid production and absorption are balanced. However, if the fluid production exceeds absorption or if the lymphatic system is impaired, fluid accumulates between the pleural layers. The symptoms of this condition and the methods of investigation show a variety of manifestations, and it is essential to consult a doctor in a timely manner for proper diagnosis and treatment.
The symptoms of pleural effusion
Pleural effusion can produce characteristic symptoms that depend on the speed of the condition’s development and the underlying disease. The first signs of fluid accumulation may include difficulty breathing, increased fatigue, and chest or back pain. These complaints can intensify with the increase in fluid volume, and the patient’s tolerance may also decrease.
The appearance of symptoms can be sudden or gradual. If the effusion develops rapidly, the patient’s breathing may encounter sudden difficulties, while in the case of a slow process, the complaints develop gradually, almost imperceptibly. Chest pain associated with breathing is also a common phenomenon and often exacerbates the patient’s feelings of distress.
To establish a diagnosis, a proper medical examination is essential, during which the specialist conducts a thorough interview and physical examination. Primary diagnostic tools include X-rays, which allow for the identification of areas covered by fluid alongside the air-filled lung regions. If necessary, further tests such as ultrasound or CT may also be utilized.
The causes of pleural effusion
There are numerous triggering causes behind pleural effusion, each of which can result in different types of fluid. One of the most common causes is inflammation, which often leads to increased fluid production. Inflammatory conditions, such as pneumonia, can also cause purulent fluid. If the inflammation is not purulent, the composition of the fluid may vary, which is important for diagnosis.
Heart failure, liver failure, and kidney failure can also contribute to the development of pleural effusion. These conditions cause changes in the composition of the blood, leading to the abnormal leakage of fluid from capillaries, thereby contributing to fluid accumulation. Cancerous diseases can also cause pleural effusion, whether it be primary pleural tumors or metastases from other organs.
Additionally, mechanical injuries, such as rib fractures, can result in blood entering the pleural layers, making the accurate determination of the type of fluid crucial for appropriate treatment.
Treatment options for pleural effusion
The treatment of pleural effusion always depends on the underlying disease. If the volume of fluid is not significant, treating the underlying cause may be sufficient for fluid absorption. For example, in the case of pneumonia, the use of antibiotics may be necessary, while anti-inflammatory medications may be required for other inflammatory conditions.
If the volume of fluid is significant, thoracentesis may become necessary. This can even be performed during diagnostic sampling, which may lead to immediate improvement in the patient’s condition. The placement of a drainage tube allows for the regular removal of fluid without the need for additional punctures.
Rarely, surgical intervention may also be required, especially if medication needs to be introduced into the pleural layers to prevent the recurrence of the effusion. During treatment, establishing an accurate diagnosis and selecting the appropriate therapy are essential for improving the patient’s condition.
