[Complications of malignant tumors--malignant pleural effusions]

MMW Fortschr Med. 2004 May 20;146(21):40-2.
[Article in German]

Abstract

Malignant pleural effusion is a complication of malignant diseases that has an appreciable negative impact on the patient's quality of life. In view of the greatly reduced life expectancy of between 3 and 12 months (median), diagnostic and therapeutic management must be orientated to the principles of palliation. Diagnostic measures comprise cytological/histological confirmation of the malignant effusion and, where necessary, of the underlying malignant disease and the extent of the intrathoracic tumor growth. In view of the tendency of malignant pleural effusion to relapse, pleurodesis is indicated, which is most effectively accomplished by video-assisted thoracoscopic talcum poudrage.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Biopsy
  • Humans
  • Palliative Care
  • Pleura / pathology
  • Pleural Effusion, Malignant / diagnosis
  • Pleural Effusion, Malignant / etiology*
  • Pleural Effusion, Malignant / pathology
  • Pleural Effusion, Malignant / therapy
  • Pleural Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Pleural Neoplasms / pathology
  • Pleural Neoplasms / secondary
  • Pleural Neoplasms / therapy
  • Pleurodesis
  • Prognosis
  • Thoracic Surgery, Video-Assisted