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Updated: Jul 1, 2026
03:22
Local Anesthetic Thoracoscopy for Undiagnosed Pleural Effusion
Published on: November 10, 2023
Management of malignant pleural effusion
1Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins, The Bunting/Blaustein Cancer Research Building, 1650 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA.
Current Oncology Reports
|September 10, 2008
Summary
Malignant pleural effusion (MPE) management options like talc pleurodesis and indwelling pleural catheters are effective and safe for advanced cancer patients. Further research is needed for improved interventions and patient selection.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pulmonology
- Palliative Care
Background:
- Malignant pleural effusion (MPE) is a common complication in advanced cancer patients.
- MPE significantly impacts patient prognosis and quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on MPE management.
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of common MPE treatment modalities.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent literature on MPE management.
- Focus on talc pleurodesis (thoracoscopy, thoracostomy), indwelling pleural catheters, and intrapleural chemotherapy.
Main Results:
- Talc is the preferred agent for pleurodesis, with ongoing exploration of alternatives.
- Talc pleurodesis and indwelling pleural catheters are safe and effective in selected patients.
- Patient selection based on predictive factors is crucial for successful pleurodesis.
Conclusions:
- Talc pleurodesis and indwelling pleural catheters represent well-tolerated management options for MPE.
- Continued research, including randomized trials, is essential for optimizing MPE interventions.
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