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Research Paper | Medicine | India | Volume 12 Issue 4, April 2023
Clinico-Etological Study of Pleural Effusion with Special Reference to Elderly
Nayek Sayantan | Umbon Jawgam | Borah Rajiv
Abstract: Background: Pleural effusion is defined as excessive or abnormal accumulation of fluid in the pleural space. Pleural effusion can be exudative or transudative. Hence, determining the etiological and clinical profile of pleural effusion helps in adoption of diagnostic and therapeutic approach. Objective: This study aims to the clinical and etiological profile of patients with pleural effusion admitted in a tertiary care centre. Materials and Methods: A prospective study of 100 patients of pleural effusion above 18 years of age was conducted. Detailed history, physical examination, radiological investigations and diagnostic pleurocentesis was carried out. The effusions were then appropriately classified as transudative and exudative and further evaluated. Results: The incidence of disease was highest in the age group 41-50 years. Males (58%) were more commonly affected. Breathlessness (84%) was the most common symptom. Exudative pleural effusions (85%)were more common. Tuberculous pleural effusion (75.29%) was the most common cause in cases of exudative effusion. Adenosine deaminase has a crucial role in diagnosing tuberculous pleural effusion. The most common cause of transudative pleural effusion was decompensated liver disease (33.33%). Tuberculosis (52%) was the most common cause of pleural effusion in elderly patients also. Right sided pleural effusions (45%)were more common. Conclusion: Tuberculosis is one of the common causes of exudative pleural effusion followed by parapneumonic effusion and malignancy. Transudative effusions are mostly bilateral. Common causes of transudative pleural effusions are decompensated liver disease, congestive cardiac failure and uraemia.
Keywords: Pleural effusion, tuberculosis, exudative
Edition: Volume 12 Issue 4, April 2023,
Pages: 1749 - 1754