Malignant pleural effusions refer to the abnormal accumulation of fluid in the pleural cavity, the space between the two layers of tissue that surround the lungs, as a result of cancerous cells invading and spreading to the pleura. This condition is commonly associated with advanced stages of cancer, particularly lung cancer, breast cancer, and metastatic cancers originating from other sites.
The fluid buildup in the pleural space occurs as a consequence of the cancer cells disrupting the normal balance between fluid production and reabsorption in the pleura. Malignant pleural effusions can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing, and fatigue, which can significantly impair a person's quality of life.
Diagnosing malignant pleural effusions involves a range of tests including physical examination, imaging studies such as chest X-rays or computed tomography (CT) scans, and analysis of the fluid obtained through a procedure called thoracentesis. This procedure involves the insertion of a needle into the pleural space to remove a sample of fluid for laboratory analysis, which helps identify cancer cells or other abnormalities.
Treatment options for malignant pleural effusions often focus on managing their symptoms and improving quality of life. Palliative measures, including the use of medications to relieve pain and discomfort, drainage of fluid with the help of a chest tube, and pleurodesis (a procedure that induces adhesion between the two pleural layers to prevent further fluid buildup), are commonly employed. In some cases, systemic therapies such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy may also be considered to target the underlying cancer and reduce its effect on the pleura.
