Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 13, 2025
03:23
Author Spotlight: Investigating the Pathophysiology of Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Published on: May 10, 2024
853
IgG4-related eosinophilic pleural effusion: a case report
Lina Wang1, Jiting Di2, Junfang Huang3,4
1Geriatric Department, Peking University First Hospital, Xicheng District, Xishiku Avenue No 8, 100034, Beijing, China.
BMC Geriatrics
|January 19, 2023
Summary
Diagnosing eosinophilic pleural effusion (EPE) in older adults is challenging. Immunoglobulin G4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is an uncommon cause of EPE, as illustrated by a case study.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Rheumatology
- Immunology
Background:
- Unilateral eosinophilic pleural effusion (EPE) presents diagnostic challenges, particularly in elderly patients.
- Immunoglobulin G4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is an emerging, though rare, etiology for EPE.
Observation:
- An 81-year-old male presented with dyspnea secondary to right-sided pleural effusion.
- Elevated serum and pleural fluid levels of both IgG4 and eosinophils were noted.
- Diagnosis of IgG4-related disease was confirmed via video-assisted thoracoscopy and pleural biopsy.
Findings:
- The patient exhibited EPE and a history of prurigo, with no other organ involvement identified.
- Treatment with oral prednisolone (40 mg daily) resulted in significant reduction of pleural effusion.
- Elevated IgG4 levels in pleural effusion may indicate IgG4-related pleural disease.
Implications:
- IgG4-related disease warrants consideration in the differential diagnosis of EPE in the elderly population.
- This case highlights the importance of evaluating IgG4 levels in unexplained EPE, especially in older individuals.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment of IgG4-RD can lead to favorable outcomes in EPE management.
Related Concept Videos
01:25Pleural Effusion I: Introduction
1.4K
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...
There are two main types of pleural effusion: transudative and exudative. They are differentiated using Light's...
1.4K
01:28Pleural Effusion II: Symptoms and Management
241
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:
241
01:30Asthma-IV: Diagnostic and Management
2.6K
The diagnosis and management of asthma are comprehensive, encompassing clinical assessments, lung function tests, and pharmacological interventions. Here's an overview:
Clinical Assessment for Asthma:
This is the first step in diagnosing and managing asthma. It includes:
Clinical Assessment for Asthma:
This is the first step in diagnosing and managing asthma. It includes:
2.6K