Pleural Effusion: Diagnostic Approach in Resource-limited Settings

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Internal Medicine
• Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

• Pleural effusion diagnosis is challenging in resource-limited settings due to limited access to advanced technology.
• Clinical judgment and basic tests are crucial for managing pleural effusion in developing countries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review diagnostic strategies for pleural effusion applicable in resource-constrained healthcare environments.
• To synthesize evidence on overcoming diagnostic obstacles for pleural effusion in low-resource settings.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review of literature from PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar was conducted.
• Inclusion criteria focused on diagnostic methods and challenges for pleural effusion in low-resource settings.
• Articles were selected based on relevance to diagnostic methods, excluding purely imaging-focused studies.

Main Results:

• Clinical assessment, chest X-ray, and thoracentesis are primary diagnostic tools for pleural effusion.
• Point-of-care ultrasound is a valuable adjunct where available.
• Tuberculosis and parapneumonic effusions are common, necessitating high clinical suspicion.

Conclusions:

• An organized approach combining clinical assessment and basic lab tests is vital for pleural effusion diagnosis.
• Developing cost-effective resources and standardized pathways improves diagnostic accuracy and patient survival.
• Enhanced physician training is essential for effective pleural effusion management in resource-poor areas.