Malignant pleural effusion

Malignant pleural effusion is a condition characterized by the abnormal accumulation of fluid in the pleural cavity, the space between the lungs and the chest wall, due to a malignant disease such as cancer. This condition is a common complication of lung and breast cancers, but can also occur in other types of cancer such as ovarian cancer and lymphoma.

Causes

Malignant pleural effusion is typically caused by the spread of cancer cells to the pleura. The cancer cells cause inflammation and increase the production of fluid, leading to the accumulation of fluid in the pleural cavity. The most common cancers associated with malignant pleural effusion are lung cancer and breast cancer, but it can also occur in other types of cancer such as ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, and lymphoma.

Symptoms

The symptoms of malignant pleural effusion can vary depending on the amount of fluid accumulated in the pleural cavity. Common symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, persistent cough, and fatigue. In severe cases, it can lead to respiratory failure.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of malignant pleural effusion is usually made through a combination of clinical examination, imaging studies such as chest X-ray or CT scan, and laboratory analysis of the pleural fluid. The definitive diagnosis is made by identifying cancer cells in the pleural fluid or on the pleura.

Treatment

The treatment of malignant pleural effusion is primarily aimed at relieving symptoms and improving quality of life. This can be achieved through various methods such as thoracentesis, where the fluid is drained from the pleural cavity, or pleurodesis, a procedure that seals the pleural space to prevent the reaccumulation of fluid. In some cases, a pleural catheter may be inserted to allow for continuous drainage of the fluid.

Prognosis

The prognosis of malignant pleural effusion is generally poor, as it is often associated with advanced stage cancer. However, the prognosis can vary depending on the type of cancer and the overall health of the patient.