What is lymphocytic pleural effusion?

Introduction: Lymphocytic pleural effusions (LPE) are commonly found following aspiration of pleural fluid. TB is most prevalent globally. Aetiology in low incidence TB populations are less known. We present a case series of LPE in a UK DGH. Aim: To investigate aetiology in undiagnosed LPE.

What are the differential diagnosis of pleural effusion?

Pleural effusion has a wide differential diagnosis. Its most common causes are congestive heart failure, cancer, pneumonia, and pulmonary embolism.

What causes a loculated pleural effusion?

Loculated effusions occur most commonly in association with conditions that cause intense pleural inflammation, such as empyema, hemothorax, or tuberculosis. Occasionally, a focal intrafissural fluid collection may look like a lung mass. This situation most commonly is seen in patients with heart failure.

What is a loculated effusion?

Fibrotic scar tissue may develop, creating pockets of fluid in the pleural cavity, preventing effective drainage of the fluid. This condition is designated as a Loculated Pleural Effusion (LPE) and leads to pain and shortness of breath, as the lungs are not able to properly expand.

How long can you live with a pleural effusion?

Patients with Malignant Pleural Effusions (MPE) have life expectancies ranging from 3 to 12 months, depending on the type and stage of their primary malignancy.

What is the normal value of pleural fluid?

The reference range of pleural fluid is 1~ 20ml. Pleural fluid can be a transudate or exudate. Transudates are most often caused by congestive heart failure or cirrhosis .

Is pleural effusion dangerous?

This situation is called a pleural effusion. A few other conditions are associated with pleural effusion caused by pleural fluid, including lung disease and congestive heart failure. Pleural effusion is dangerous if left untreated, but is relatively easy to treat.

What causes pleura effusion fluid in lung cancer?

There are many causes for pleural effusion, including infections, injuries, heart or liver failure, blood clots in the lungs (pulmonary emboli), and drugs. Lung cancer tumors can also cause pleural effusion, which when caused specifically by cancer is known as malignant pleural effusion. 1

Is there amylase in pleural fluid?

Amylase is a kind of enzyme found in the pleural fluid between the lungs and the chest cavity. It is a special enzyme produced by the pancreas for the purpose of food breakdown in the cells.