Pleural pathology, pleural effusion
Pleural pathology includes: chylothorax haemothorax pneumothorax empyema pleural effusion mesothelioma pleurisy Symptoms and signs of pleural disease include: pleural friction rub pleuritic pain A chylothorax is an uncommon phenomenon characterised by accumulation of lymph in the pleural cavity. It is the most common form of chylous effusion. Chylothorax results from leakage from the thoracic duct or other major channel: most commonly due to trauma or malignancy sometimes, the leakage may be precipitated by penetrating or crushing wounds or may follow surgery. rarely, the chylothorax is due to filariasis or subclavian vein thrombosis, or occurs secondary to chylous ascites Chest radiology reveals an unencapsulated pleural effusion. Aspirates are creamy and opalescent. Once obtained, there is rapid reaccumulation of chyle. Repeated aspiration may cause protein and lymphocyte depletion. Microscopic examination of the aspirate shows a predominance of lymphocytes which is cha