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Pleural Effusion I: Introduction

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Pleural effusion is an abnormal fluid accumulation in the pleural cavity, a narrow space between the lungs and the chest wall. It is not a disease per se but rather a symptom or indication of an underlying disease. In normal circumstances, this space contains a small amount of fluid (5 to 15 mL), a lubricant facilitating the non-frictional movement of the pleural surfaces.
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Pleural Effusion Overview
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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 14, 2026

Isolated Lung Perfusion System in the Rabbit Model

Isolated Lung Perfusion System in the Rabbit Model

Published on: July 15, 2021

Pleural fluid exchange in rabbits.

Gregg J Stashenko¹, Amy Robichaux, Y C Gary Lee

¹Department of Medicine, Saint Thomas Hospital, Division of Allergy, Critical Care and Pulmonary Diseases, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.

Respirology (Carlton, Vic.)

|June 26, 2007

Summary

Saline solution is absorbed more quickly than high-protein solutions in rabbits. Larger dextran molecules are absorbed more slowly, indicating size-dependent pleural fluid absorption.

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Area of Science:

Physiology
Biochemistry

Background:

Pleural fluid dynamics are crucial for respiratory function.
Understanding pleural fluid absorption aids in managing conditions like pleural effusions.

Purpose of the Study:

To compare the absorption rates of saline versus high-protein solutions in rabbit pleural space.
To investigate the absorption kinetics of dextran molecules of varying molecular weights (MWs).

Main Methods:

Intrapleural injections of saline and 10% protein solutions containing dextrans of varying MWs were administered to New Zealand white rabbits.
Pleural fluid volume and dextran concentrations were measured at multiple time points post-injection (1, 4, 8, 18, 24 hours).

Main Results:

Saline was absorbed significantly faster than the high-protein solution (P < 0.001).
Dextran concentrations remained higher in saline compared to the protein solution over time.
Absorption rate demonstrated a continuous gradient, with larger MW dextrans being cleared more slowly.

Conclusions:

Pleural fluid absorption is faster for saline than for high-protein solutions.
The rate of pleural fluid absorption is inversely related to the size of dextran molecules, with larger molecules absorbed at a slower rate.