PLEURAL EFFUSION - WHICH WAY AHEAD

This article gives an overview of the aetiology, diagnostic evaluation and treatment of pleural effusions. A systematic approach including r adiological and sonographic examinations and pleural fluid analysis is proposed with a view to selecting the most appropriate therapy. Commo n forms of exudative pleural effusions are explained in detail. For co mplicated para-pneumonic effusions, new therapeutic options such as th e use of fibrinolytics or thoracoscopic debridement are discussed. Tal c slurry and thoracoscopic talc poudrage provide effective methods for pleurodesis in case of malignant effusions.