Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 27, 2026
03:23
Three-Dimensional Cell Culture Models to Investigate the Epithelial Barrier in Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Published on: May 10, 2024
[Eosinophilic pleural effusion related to taking valproic acid]
Revue De Pneumologie Clinique
|December 6, 2011
Summary
Valproic acid can cause eosinophilic pleural effusion and blood eosinophilia. Discontinuing the medication led to rapid improvement, with corticosteroids used for complete resolution.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Pharmacology
- Hematology
Background:
- Eosinophilic pleural effusions are associated with diverse causes.
- Valproic acid is an anticonvulsant and mood-stabilizing drug.
Observation:
- A 40-year-old male developed an eosinophilic pleural effusion and blood hypereosinophilia.
- These symptoms emerged nine weeks after initiating valproic acid treatment.
Findings:
- Other common causes of eosinophilic pleural effusion were ruled out.
- Discontinuation of valproic acid resulted in rapid reduction of both pleural effusion and blood eosinophilia.
- Oral corticosteroids were administered for persistent effusion, leading to complete resolution.
Implications:
- Valproic acid is identified as a rare but potential cause of drug-induced eosinophilic pleural effusion.
- While discontinuation of valproic acid often resolves the effusion, short-term corticosteroid therapy may be required for complete healing.
Related Concept Videos
01:25Pleural Effusion I: Introduction
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.
There are two main types of pleural effusion: transudative and exudative. They are differentiated using Light's criteria,...
There are two main types of pleural effusion: transudative and exudative. They are differentiated using Light's criteria,...
01:28Pleural Effusion II: Symptoms and Management
Pleural Effusion Overview
A pleural effusion is the abnormal collection of fluid between the parietal and visceral pleura layers of tissue that form the lining of the lungs and chest cavity. It can occur independently or due to surrounding parenchymal diseases, such as infection, malignancy, or inflammatory conditions.
Clinical Manifestations:
A pleural effusion is the abnormal collection of fluid between the parietal and visceral pleura layers of tissue that form the lining of the lungs and chest cavity. It can occur independently or due to surrounding parenchymal diseases, such as infection, malignancy, or inflammatory conditions.
Clinical Manifestations:
01:13Acid Suppressive Drugs for Peptic Ulcer Disease: Proton Pump Inhibitors
Peptic ulcers, often induced by H. pylori infections or NSAID usage, arise from disruptions in the delicate balance of gastric acid production. Peptic ulcers stem from heightened gastric acid levels due to H. pylori infections or NSAID use. The protective mucus layer diminishes in the presence of these factors, allowing gastric acid to erode the stomach lining and form ulcers.
Gastric acid, a potent cocktail of hydrogen and chloride ions, is produced in specialized parietal cells within the...
Gastric acid, a potent cocktail of hydrogen and chloride ions, is produced in specialized parietal cells within the...
01:27Pneumothorax-II
Pneumothorax is a medical condition defined by the buildup of air in the pleural space between the lungs and the chest wall. This accumulation of air can lead to partial or complete lung collapse, resulting in a range of clinical manifestations. Understanding the clinical presentation and effective management strategies is crucial for healthcare professionals in providing timely and appropriate care to individuals with pneumothorax.
Clinical Manifestations:
Clinical Manifestations:
01:08Pneumothorax II: Pathophysiology
Pneumothorax means the presence of air in the pleural space — the thin potential gap between the visceral and parietal pleura. This condition disrupts the normal pressure balance that keeps the lungs inflated, leading to partial or complete collapse of the affected lung.Normal physiologyUnder normal conditions, the pleural space maintains a slightly negative intrapleural pressure, which keeps the lungs expanded against the chest wall. This negative pressure creates a delicate balance between...
01:18Pulmonary Edema II: Pathophysiology
Pulmonary edema is the accumulation of fluid in the interstitial and alveolar spaces of the lungs, impairing gas exchange and oxygen delivery. It may be cardiogenic or noncardiogenic, but both reduce oxygenation and lung compliance.Cardiogenic Pulmonary EdemaCardiogenic edema results from increased hydrostatic pressure in pulmonary capillaries, usually due to left ventricular dysfunction from myocardial infarction, heart failure, or valvular disease. Ineffective cardiac pumping causes blood to...