Pleural Effusion

The Image

General Features in Pleural Effusion

Effusions may include exudates, transudates or malignancies. The costophrenic sulcus is frequently blunted, and this is often first seen on lateral X-rays. A decubitus film is helpful. The effusion often forms a meniscus at its interface with the chest wall and shows a homogeneous density. Large effusions shift the mediastinum and may cause some underlying lung collapse. Infectious or neoplastic effusions may become loculated.

Diagnosis

Lung Carcinoma with Pleural Effusion.

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