Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 14, 2026
Local Anesthetic Thoracoscopy for Undiagnosed Pleural Effusion
Published on: November 10, 2023
Treatment of complicated pleural effusions in 2013
Rahul Bhatnagar1, Nick A Maskell
1Respiratory Research Unit, Southmead Hospital, Southmead Road, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol BS10 5NB, UK.
Insights
Pleural infection, including empyema, is rising globally. Despite advances, patient outcomes for complicated pleural effusions remain unchanged, highlighting a need for improved adult treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Infectious Diseases
- Thoracic Surgery
Background:
- Increasing global incidence of pleural infection worldwide.
- Static morbidity and mortality rates over the past decade despite therapeutic advancements.
- Complicated pleural effusions, including empyema, pose significant clinical challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current evidence and expert opinions on pleural infection management.
- To focus on the epidemiology, etiology, and treatment of complicated pleural effusions in adults.
- To synthesize information for clinicians managing adult pleural infections.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive review of existing literature and clinical guidelines.
- Analysis of epidemiological trends and etiological factors.
- Evaluation of current treatment strategies for adult complicated pleural effusions.
Main Results:
- Pleural infection incidence is rising globally.
- Morbidity and mortality associated with pleural infection have remained static.
- Adult and pediatric cases are often managed as separate entities in research and practice.
Conclusions:
- Despite rising incidence, outcomes for pleural infections remain static.
- A focused approach on adult disease management is necessary.
- Further research and guideline refinement are needed for effective treatment of adult complicated pleural effusions.
Abstract:
The incidence of pleural infection seems to be increasing worldwide. Despite continued advances in the management of this condition, morbidity and mortality have essentially remained static over the past decade. This article summarizes the current evidence and opinions on the epidemiology, etiology, and management of complicated pleural effusions caused by infection, including empyema. Although many parallels may be drawn between children and adults in such cases, most trials, guidelines, and series regard pediatric patient groups and those more than 18 years of age as separate entities. This review focuses mainly on the treatment of adult disease.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Pleural Effusion II: Symptoms and Management
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:
01:25Pleural Effusion I: Introduction
There are two main types of pleural effusion: transudative and exudative. They are differentiated using Light's criteria,...
01:29Pulmonary Embolism II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
01:26Flail Chest-II
Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History:
01:28Pneumonia IV: Management
Bacterial Pneumonia Treatment
For bacterial pneumonia, antibiotics serve as the cornerstone of therapy. Initial treatment often begins with empirical antibiotics, tailored to the anticipated causative organism and adjusted based on culture results. Key antibiotic choices include:
01:26Endoscopic Studies II: Thoracocentesis
Description
Excess pleural fluid or air may accumulate in some respiratory disorders in the thoracic cavity. To treat pleural effusion, a physician conducts thoracentesis by carefully piercing the chest wall and entering...