Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 20, 2025

Local Anesthetic Thoracoscopy for Undiagnosed Pleural Effusion
Published on: November 10, 2023
Boerhaave syndrome presenting black pleural effusion: A case report
Takaaki Tanaka1, Ryosuke Ikeuchi2, Kazuya Hisamatsu2
1Department of Medical Oncology, Okayama Rosai Hospital, 1-10-25 Chikkomidorimachi, Okayama, 7028055, Japan.
Abstract:
A 55-year-old man experienced nausea and vomiting after brushing his teeth. He experienced back pain after this episode and visited our emergency department. Chest computed tomography (CT) images revealed moderate pleural fluid accumulation and mild left pneumothorax. Thoracentesis showed black pleural effusion. Thoracic drainage included food debris with black pleural effusion, and gastroscopy revealed food debris and perforation of the lower esophagus. Esophageal perforation was surgically repaired using omental implantation and pleuroclysis. Given the high mortality rate associated with black pleural effusion, prompt diagnostic procedures and corresponding management are essential.
Related Concept Videos
Pleural Effusion I: Introduction
There are two main types of pleural effusion: transudative and exudative. They are differentiated using Light's...
Pleural 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:
Pneumothorax-II
Clinical Manifestations:
Pneumothorax-I
Pneumothorax can be even further classified as spontaneous, traumatic, and tension pneumothorax.
Pleural Disorders: Types and Brief Description
Pulmonary Embolism I: Introduction

