Pleural Effusion
Pleural Effusion (Fluid Around the Lung)
A pleural effusion is a buildup of fluid between the lung and the chest wall. Common causes include heart failure, pneumonia, liver or kidney disease, cancer and inflammation. Large effusions can press on the lung.
Symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain, especially with a deep breath
- Dry cough
- Fever if infection is present
Small effusions may cause no symptoms and be found on an X-ray.
Diagnosis & Treatment
How we evaluate pleural effusions
- Chest X-ray, ultrasound or CT scan
- Thoracentesis: removing fluid with a thin needle to test it and relieve symptoms
- Blood tests and other studies to find the cause
Treatment options
- Treating the underlying cause
- Draining fluid when it causes symptoms
- For fluid that keeps coming back, options such as an indwelling pleural catheter or pleurodesis, coordinated with our partners when needed
See also: Shortness of Breath · Lung Nodules & Cancer Screening