Expert consensus on diagnosis and treatment of malignant pleural effusion caused by lung cancer / 中华肿瘤杂志

Malignant pleural effusion (MPE) can occur in nearly all types of malignant tumors, with lung cancer being the most prevalent cause. The presence of MPE indicates an advanced stage or distant spread of the tumor, significantly reducing the patient's life expectancy. Particularly, a substantial amount of pleural effusion can impede heart and lung function, impair blood oxygen perfusion levels in the body, and greatly diminish patients' quality of life. Even when systemic treatment has alleviated the primary lung tumor in some patients, effective control over MPE remains challenging and impacts clinical outcomes. Therefore, it is crucial to implement measures for reducing or managing MPE while ensuring standardized treatment for lung cancer. In recent years, significant advancements have been made in diagnosing and treating lung cancer complicated by MPE through extensive basic and clinical research. Based on existing evidence and China's clinical practice experience, relevant experts from the China Association of Health Promotion and Education and Cancer Rehabilitation and Palliative Treatment Professional Committee of China Anti-Cancer Association (CRPC) have summarized key aspects related to diagnosis and treatment consensus opinions for lung cancer complicated by MPE. This aims to establish standardized procedures that will serve as a reference for doctors' clinical practice.

Early discharge for patients with benign pleural effusions using a Wayne catheter (pigtail) chest drain - analysis of safety, complications, and quality of life / Alta precoce para pacientes com derrames pleurais benignos em uso de dreno pleural de Wayne (pigtail) - análise de segurança, complicações e qualidade de vida

ABSTRACT Objective: to assess safety, efficacy and quality of life in patients with benign pleural effusions undergong pleural drainage with Wayne pleural catheter (DW) in an outpatient setting. Method: this is a prospective study, in which 47 patients were evaluated between July 2017 and October 2018. Patients with non-malignant pleural effusions underwent pleural drainage with clinical evolution compatible with outpatient care were included. Patients who underwent drainage due to other conditions and patients were excluded. Results: after catheter placement, the mean length of hospital stay was 3.14 (± 3.85) days, and 21 patients (44.68%) were discharged within 24 hours. The mean time with the catheter was 12.63 (± 7.37) days. The analysis of the pleural fluid was transudate in 87.3% of cases and exudate in 12.3%. The causes of pleural effusion were heart failure (72.3%), renal failure (19.1%), liver failure (6.3%) and pneumonia (8.5%). The quality of life, analyzed according to the parameters of the questionnaire SF 36, showed low average values when compared to other studies. Analyzing each descriptor, the average was greater only in the limitation related to physical aspects. In the other descriptors, the results were similar, but smaller. Conclusion: the outpatient use of pleural catheters of the Wayne type (pigtail) proved to be feasible, safe and with a low associated infection rate. This is a viable option for selected patients.

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar a segurança, a eficácia, as complicações e a qualidade de vida da alta precoce e acompanhamento ambulatorial de pacientes com derrames pleurais benignos submetidos à drenagem pleural com dreno de Wayne (DW). Método: estudo prospectivo, em que foram avaliados 47 pacientes entre julho de 2017 e outubro de 2018. Foram incluídos os pacientes com derrames pleurais não malignos, submetidos a drenagem pleural com evolução clínica compatível com o cuidado ambulatorial. Foram excluídos os pacientes submetidos a drenagem por outras afecções. Resultados: após a drenagem, a média do tempo de internação dos pacientes foi de 3,14 (±3,85) dias, sendo que 21 pacientes (44,68%) tiveram alta em até 24 horas após a drenagem. O tempo médio de permanência com o dreno foi de 12,63 (±7,37) dias. A análise do líquido pleural mostrou tratar-se de transudato em 87,3% dos casos e de exsudato em 12,3%. Dentre as causas do derrame pleural, destacaram-se insuficiência cardíaca (72,3%), insuficiência renal (19,1%), hepatopatias (6,3%) e pneumonias (8,5%). A qualidade de vida, analisada segundo os parâmetros do questionário SF 36, teve valores médios baixos, principalmente em relação a outros estudos. Na análise de cada descritor, a média apresentou-se maior somente na limitação por aspectos físicos. Nos demais descritores, os resultados foram semelhantes, mas menores. Conclusão: o uso ambulatorial de cateteres pleurais do tipo Wayne (pigtail) mostrou-se factível, seguro e com baixa taxa de infecções associadas. Trata-se de opção viável para pacientes selecionados.

Eficacia y seguridad de la estreptoquinasa recombinante en niños con derrame pleural paraneumónico / Effectiveness and security of recombinant streptokinase in children with parapneumonic pleural efussion

Introducción: El derrame pleural paraneumónico como complicación de neumonías adquiridas en la comunidad en la población pediátrica constituye un problema de salud mundial y en Cuba. El empleo de fibrinolíticos intrapleurales es una acertada opción terapéutica. Objetivo: Evaluar la eficacia y seguridad de la utilización de la estreptoquinasa recombinante en el tratamiento del derrame pleural paraneumónico complicado complejo en niños. Métodos: Ensayo clínico confirmatorio fase III, monocentro, abierto, aleatorizado y controlado (RPCEC00000292), realizado entre septiembre 2018 - octubre 2019. Se incluyeron niños (1 - 18 años de edad), que cumplieron los criterios de selección, incluida la voluntariedad. Todos recibieron el tratamiento convencional establecido y se distribuyeron en dos grupos: I-experimental (estreptoquinasa recombinante, dosis diaria intrapleural de 200 000 UI, 3-5 días); II-control (terapia convencional). Las variables principales fueron: necesidad de cirugía y la estadía hospitalaria. Se evaluaron también los eventos adversos. Resultados: Se evaluaron 55 niños con la enfermedad referida, de ellos, 34 (61,8 por ciento) se incluyeron en el estudio. Ningún paciente del grupo experimental requirió cirugía, a diferencia del grupo control que lo requirió en 25 por ciento. Se redujo significativamente la estadía hospitalaria en el grupo que recibió estreptoquinasa recombinante. No se presentaron eventos adversos graves atribuibles al tratamiento experimental. Conclusiones: La estreptoquinasa recombinante administrada en el derrame pleural paraneumónico complicado complejo resultó un método eficaz y seguro para la evacuación del foco séptico, con un impacto positivo expresado en la reducción de complicaciones, la necesidad de tratamiento quirúrgico y la estadía hospitalaria, sin la ocurrencia de eventos adversos relacionados con su uso(AU)

in the community by the pediatric population represents a health problem in the world and in Cuba. The use of intrapleural fibrinolytics is a good therapeutic option. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness and security of the use of recombinant streptokinase in the treatment of complex parapneumonic pleural efussion in children. Methods: Phase III confirmatory clinical trial, monocentric, open, randomized and controlled (RPCEC00000292) - named as DENIS study- carried out from September 2018 to October, 2019. There were included children (from 1 to 18 years old) that met the selection criteria including voluntariness. All of them received the established conventional treatment and were distributed in two groups: I- experimental (recombinant streptokinase, intrapleural daily dose of 200 000 UI, 3 - 5 days); II- control (conventional therapy). The main variables were need of surgery and hospital stay. There were also assessed the adverse events. Results: 55 children with the above mentioned disease were assessed; 34 of them (61.8 percent) were included in the study. Any of the patients of the experimental group required surgery, opposite to the control group that required it in a 25 percent. The hospital stay was significantly reduced in the group that had treatment with recombinant streptokinase. There were not any severe adverse events related to the experimental treatment. Conclusions: When recombinant streptokinase was administered in the complex parapneumonic pleural efussion resulted in an efficient and safe method for the elimination of the septic focus, with a positive impact expressed in the reduction of complications, the need of surgical treatment and the hospital stay without presenting related adverse events while using it(AU)

Hidrotórax hepático: presentación de 3 casos con diferentes enfoques terapéuticos / Hepatic hydrothorax: presentation of 3 cases with different therapeutic approaches

El hidrotórax hepático (HH) se define como un derrame pleural mayor de 500 ml en pacientes con cirrosis e hipertensión portal. Representa una complicación infrecuente por lo general asociada con ascitis y su origen se relaciona con el paso de líquido ascítico a través de pequeños defectos en el diafragma de predominio en el hemitórax derecho. Una vez establecido el diagnóstico por imágenes, la toracentesis diagnostica permite confirmar un trasudado. La terapia inicial está basada en la restricción de sodio y el uso combinado de diuréticos. El 20-25% de los pacientes desarrolla un HH refractario, el cual requiere intervenciones invasivas tales como la derivación percutánea portosistémica intrahepática (DPPI), la reparación de los defectos diafragmáticos por videotoracoscopia asistida asociada a pleurodésis química y el uso de un catéter pleural tunelizado. No se recomienda la inserción de un tubo de tórax por su elevada morbilidad y mortalidad. El tratamiento definitivo del HH es el trasplante hepático el cual alcanza una excelente sobrevida. Presentamos tres casos de hidrotórax hepático con diferentes enfoques terapéuticos que incluyeron el manejo conservador con dieta y diuréticos, la inserción fallida de un tubo de tórax con pleurodesis y una DPPI.

Hepatic hydrothorax is uncommon transudative pleural effusion greater than 500 ml in association with cirrhosis and portal hypertension. Ascites is also present in most of the patients and the pathophysiology include the passage of ascites fluid through small diaphragmatic defects. After diagnostic thoracentesis studies, the first line management is restricting sodium intake and diuretics combination including stepwise dose of spironolactone plus furosemide. Therapeutic thoracentesis is a simple and effective procedure to relief dyspnea. Hepatic hydrothorax is refractory in approximately 20-25% and treatments options include repeated thoracentesis, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts (TIPS) placement, chemical pleurodesis with repair diaphragmatic defects using video-assisted thoracoscopy surgery (VATS), and insertion of an indwelling pleural catheter. Chest tube insertion carries significant morbidity and mortality with questionable benefit. Hepatic transplantation remains the best treatment option with long term survival. We present three cases of hepatic hydrothorax with different therapeutic approach including first line management, failed chest tube insertion and TIPS placement.

Diagnóstico y tratamiento del derrame pleural paraneumónico / Diagnosis and treatment of parapneumonic pleural effusion

El derrame paraneumónico ocurre como complicación de una neumonía y en nuestro medio corresponde al 2% de las hospitalizaciones de causa respiratoria. Se debe sospechar en pacientes con neumonía presentan evolución desfavorable y debe confirmarse por exámenes de imágenes. El estudio y drenaje del líquido pleural es fundamental para un manejo adecuado y evolución satisfactoria, por lo que la toracocentesis y la instalación de drenaje pleural no deben retrasarse. El tratamiento debe ser hospitalizado, con antibióticos endovenosos y en la mayoría de los casos la evolución es satisfactoria y sin secuelas para el paciente.

Paraneumonic effusion occurs as a complication of pneumonia and in our case corresponds to 2% of respiratory hospitalizations. It should be suspected in patients with pneumonia presenting unfavorable evolution and must be confirmed by imaging tests. The study and drainage of pleural fluid is essential for adequate management and satisfactory evolution, so that thoracentesis and pleural drainage installation should not be delayed. The treatment should be hospitalized with intravenous antibiotics and in most cases the evolution is satisfactory and without sequelae for the patient.

Parapneumonic pleural effusion: reality and strategies in an Amazon university hospital / Derrame pleural parapneumônico: realidade e estratégias em um hospital universitário na Amazônia

ABSTRACT Objective: to define the profile and analyze the postoperative evolution of children with parapneumonic pleural effusion (PPE), and to evaluate strategies used in the presence of diagnostic and therapeutic limitations, emphasizing the open thoracic drainage (OTD) . Methods: we conducted a cross-sectional, prospective, analytical study in which we followed children admitted in an Amazon university hospital with surgically addressed PPE, from October 2010 to October 2011. Results: we studied 46 patients, most children under three years of age (74%), with no gender predominance. A significant portion of the sample (28%) had inappropriate body mass index. We found short stature in five patients (11%), which tended, in general, to a worst postoperative outcome when compared with children of normal height (p=0.039). The average duration of symptoms till admission was 16.9 days. Empyema was a common diagnosis in the first surgery (47.8%), and its bearers had longer duration of chest tube drainage (p=0.015). Most children (80.4%) were operated only once. The mean length of hospital stay was 25.9 days. Thoracic drainage (water-sealed) was the most common procedure (85%), with conversion to OTD in 24% of the sample, thoracotomy being rare (4%). There were no deaths. Conclusion: the studied individuals often had advanced disease and nutritional disorders, affecting outcome. OTD remains a valid option for specific situations, and further studies are needed for confirmation.

RESUMO Objetivo: definir o perfil e analisar a evolução pós-operatória de crianças com derrame pleural parapneumônico (DPP), bem como, avaliar estratégias utilizadas na vigência de limitações diagnóstico-terapêuticas, enfatizando a drenagem torácica aberta (DTA) . Métodos: estudo transversal, prospectivo, analítico, no qual foram acompanhadas as crianças admitidas em um hospital universitário da Amazônia com o diagnóstico de DPP abordado cirurgicamente, no período entre outubro de 2010 a outubro de 2011. Resultados: foram estudados 46 pacientes, a maioria menor de três anos de idade (74%), sem predominância de sexo. Significativa parcela da amostra (28%) possuía índice de massa corpórea inadequado. Baixa estatura foi encontrada em cinco pacientes (11%), que tenderam, em geral, à pior evolução pós-operatória, quando comparados com as crianças de estatura normal (p=0,039). A duração média dos sintomas à admissão foi 16,9 dias. O empiema foi diagnóstico comum na primeira intervenção cirúrgica (47,8%), e seus portadores apresentaram maior duração da drenagem torácica (p=0,015). A maioria das crianças (80,4%) foi operada apenas uma vez. A média de dias de internação hospitalar foi 25,9 dias. A drenagem torácica fechada em selo d'água foi a cirurgia mais realizada (85%), precisando ser convertida em DTA em 24% da amostra e toracotomias foram raras (4%). Não houve óbitos. Conclusão: os indivíduos estudados possuíam frequentemente doença avançada e distúrbios nutricionais, repercutindo na evolução clínica. A DTA permanece como uma opção válida para situações específicas, e novos estudos ainda são necessários para confirmação.

Derrame pleural em pacientes com Síndrome da Imunodeficiência Humana Adquirida / Pleural effusion in patients with Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome

Atualmente, com advento da terapia antirretroviral altamente ativa (HAART - highly active antiretroviral therapy) a etiologia dos derrames pleurais em indivíduos com HIV positivo é bastante semelhante à observadanaqueles não infectados pelo HIV. AU

Currently with the advent of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) the etiology of pleural effusions in HIV positive individuals is quite similar to that observed in those not infected with HIV. AU

Can ultrasound guidance reduce the risk of pneumothorax following thoracentesis? / A ultrassonografia pode reduzir o risco de pneumotórax após toracocentese?

OBJECTIVE: Thoracentesis is one of the bedside procedures most commonly associated with iatrogenic complications, particularly pneumothorax. Various risk factors for complications associated with thoracentesis have recently been identified, including an inexperienced operator; an inadequate or inexperienced support team; the lack of a standardized protocol; and the lack of ultrasound guidance. We sought to determine whether ultrasound-guided thoracentesis can reduce the risk of pneumothorax and improve outcomes (fewer procedures without fluid removal and greater volumes of fluid removed during the procedures). In our comparison of thoracentesis with and without ultrasound guidance, all procedures were performed by a team of expert pulmonologists, using the same standardized protocol in both conditions. METHODS: A total of 160 participants were randomly allocated to undergo thoracentesis with or without ultrasound guidance (n = 80 per group). The primary outcome was pneumothorax following thoracentesis. Secondary outcomes included the number of procedures without fluid removal and the volume of fluid drained during the procedure. RESULTS: Pneumothorax occurred in 1 of the 80 patients who underwent ultrasound-guided thoracentesis and in 10 of the 80 patients who underwent thoracentesis without ultrasound guidance, the difference being statistically significant (p = 0.009). Fluid was removed in 79 of the 80 procedures performed with ultrasound guidance and in 72 of the 80 procedures performed without it. The mean volume of fluid drained was larger during the former than during the latter (960 ± 500 mL vs. 770 ± 480 mL), the difference being statistically significant (p = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS: Ultrasound guidance increases the yield of thoracentesis and reduces the risk of post-procedure pneumothorax. (Chinese Clinical Trial Registry identifier: ChiCTR-TRC-12002174 [http://www.chictr.org/en/]) .

OBJETIVO: Dentre os procedimentos realizados à beira do leito, a toracocentese é um dos mais comumente associados a complicações iatrogênicas, particularmente pneumotórax. Foram recentemente identificados vários fatores de risco de complicações associadas à toracocentese: a inexperiência do operador, a inadequação ou inexperiência da equipe de apoio, a ausência de um protocolo padronizado e a ausência de ultrassonografia para guiar o procedimento. Nosso objetivo foi determinar se a toracocentese guiada por ultrassonografia pode reduzir o risco de pneumotórax e melhorar os desfechos (menos procedimentos sem remoção de líquido e maior volume de líquido removido durante os procedimentos). Para compararmos a toracocentese guiada por ultrassonografia à toracocentese sem ultrassonografia, todos os procedimentos foram realizados pela mesma equipe de pneumologistas especialistas, os quais usaram o mesmo protocolo padronizado em ambas as condições. MÉTODOS: Cento e sessenta pacientes foram aleatoriamente divididos em dois grupos: toracocentese guiada por ultrassonografia e toracocentese sem ultrassonografia (n = 80 por grupo). O desfecho primário foi pneumotórax após a toracocentese. Os desfechos secundários foram o número de procedimentos sem remoção de líquido e o volume de líquido drenado durante o procedimento. RESULTADOS: Houve pneumotórax em 1 dos 80 pacientes submetidos a toracocentese guiada por ultrassonografia e em 10 dos 80 submetidos a toracocentese sem ultrassonografia; a diferença foi estatisticamente significante (p = 0,009). Líquido foi removido em 79 dos 80 procedimentos guiados por ultrassonografia e em 72 dos 80 que não o foram. A média do volume de líquido drenado foi maior nos procedimentos guiados por ultrassonografia ...

Derrame pleural secundário à hiperestimulação ovariana / Pleural effusion following ovarian hyperstimulation

A síndrome de hiperestimulação ovariana (SHEO) é uma complicação iatrogênica que ocorre na fase lútea de um ciclo hormonal induzido. Na maioria dos casos, os sintomas são autolimitados e regridem espontaneamente. Entretanto, casos graves comumente cursam com desconforto respiratório agudo. O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever a apresentação clínica, o tratamento e os desfechos de derrame pleural associado a SHEO em três pacientes submetidas a fertilização in vitro. A idade das pacientes variou de 27 a 33 anos, e o aparecimento do derrame pleural sintomático (bilateral em todos os casos) ocorreu, em média, 43 dias (variação: 27-60 dias) após o início da terapia hormonal para a indução da ovulação. Todas as pacientes necessitaram de internação hospitalar para reposição volêmica maciça, e duas delas necessitaram de ventilação mecânica não invasiva. Embora todas as pacientes tenham sido inicialmente submetidas à toracocentese, a recidiva precoce dos sintomas e do derrame pleural fez com que se optasse pela drenagem pleural com cateter do tipo pigtail. Apesar do alto débito de drenagem (média de 1.000 mL/dia na primeira semana) e do tempo de drenagem prolongado (9-22 dias), os desfechos foram excelentes (alta hospitalar). Embora o derrame pleural secundário a SHEO seja provavelmente subdiagnosticado, a morbidade associada não deve ser subestimada, principalmente devido a seus efeitos em pacientes potencialmente gestantes. Nesta série de casos, o diagnóstico precoce e as medidas de suporte clínico adequadas permitiram uma evolução favorável, limitando a abordagem cirúrgica a uma drenagem pleural adequada.

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is an iatrogenic complication that occurs in the luteal phase of an induced hormonal cycle. In most cases, the symptoms are self-limited and spontaneous regression occurs. However, severe cases are typically accompanied by acute respiratory distress. The objective of the present study was to describe the clinical presentation, treatment, and outcome of pleural effusion associated with OHSS in three patients undergoing in vitro fertilization. The patients ranged in age from 27 to 33 years. The onset of symptomatic pleural effusion (bilateral in all cases) occurred, on average, 43 days (range, 27-60 days) after initiation of hormone therapy for ovulation induction. All three patients required hospitalization for massive fluid resuscitation, and two required noninvasive mechanical ventilation. Although all three patients initially underwent thoracentesis, early recurrence of symptoms and pleural effusion prompted the use of drainage with a pigtail catheter. Despite the high output from the pleural drain (mean, 1,000 mL/day in the first week) and prolonged drainage (for 9-22 days), the outcomes were excellent: all three patients were discharged from hospital. Although pleural effusion secondary to OHSS is probably underdiagnosed, the associated morbidity should not be underestimated, especially because it affects potentially pregnant patients. In this study, early diagnosis and appropriate supportive measures yielded favorable results, limiting the surgical approach to adequate pleural drainage.

Efficacy & safety of iodopovidone pleurodesis: a systematic review & meta-analysis.

Background & objectives: Chemical pleurodesis is an accepted therapy for patients with recurrent pleural effusions and pneumothorax. Iodopovidone has been shown to be safe and effective for chemical pleurodesis in several studies. The aim of this systematic review was to update a previously reported meta-analysis on the efficacy and safety of iodopovidone pleurodesis. Methods: Two databases MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched for a period (1952-2010), and studies that have reported success rates with iodopovidone pleurodesis were selected. The proportions with 95 per cent confidence interval (CI) were calculated to assess the outcomes in the individual studies and the results were pooled using a random effects model. Results: Thirteen eligible studies with 499 patients were included in the mata-analysis. The success rates varied from 70 to 100 per cent in different studies with the pooled success rate being 88.7 per cent (95% CI, 84.1 to 92.1). The success rate was not affected by the method (tube thoracostomy vs. thoracoscopy, 89.6 vs. 94.2%) or the indication of pleurodesis (pleural effusion vs. pneumothorax, 89.2 vs. 94.9%). The only significant complication reported was chest pain of varying degree. Systemic hypotension was reported in six patients across the studies. There were no deaths associated with iodopovidone pleurodesis. Statistical heterogeneity and publication bias were found. Interpretation & conclusions: Iodopovidone may be considered a safe and effective agent for chemical pleurodesis in patients with pleural effusions and recurrent pneumothoraces.

Massive pleural effusion due to metastasis of prostate cancer / Efusión pleural masiva debido a metástasis de cáncer de próstata

We describe the case of a 72-year old male with pleural effusion associated with prostate cancer. There was a previous history of tobacco smoking (pack/year: 47) and of total prostatectomy followed by external beam radiation therapy seven years previously for prostate cancer. Furthermore, he was submitted to orchiectomy plus non-steroidal anti-androgen blockage, in addition to docetaxel-based chemotherapy and prednisone. After the beginning of chemotherapy, a progressive elevation in prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels was observed. On admission, he presented with fever, weight loss, and respiratory symptoms due to a massive right pleural effusion. Fluid samples obtained by needle aspiration showed haemorrhagic exudates without malignant cells. Pleural metastasis were detected by thorax imaging studies, and biopsy samples revealed prostate adenocarcinoma as the origin of his pleural effusion. Pleural fluid was drained and talc pleurodesis was performed. This report aims to describe the occurrence of massive pleural effusion due to metastasis of prostate cancer, and emphasizes the role of pleural biopsy with immunohistochemical studies to characterize this diagnosis.

Se describe un hombre de 72 años con efusión pleural asociada con cáncer de próstata. Había antecedentes de tabaquismo (47 paquetes por año) así como una historia de prostatectomía radical, seguida por terapia de radiación externa, siete años antes. Además, se le sometió a orquiectomía junto con bloqueo antiandrogénico no esteroideo, además de quimioterapia a base de docetaxel y prednisona. Después de iniciada la quimioterapia, se observó una elevación progresiva en los niveles de PSA. En el momento del ingreso, el paciente presentaba fiebre, pérdida de peso, y síntomas respiratorios debidos a una efusión pleural derecha voluminosa. Las muestras de fluido obtenidas mediante punción aspirativa con aguja fina, mostraron exudados hemorrágicos sin células malignas. Se detectaron implantes pleurales con los estudios imaginológicos del tórax, y las muestras de la biopsia revelaron que el origen de su efusión pleural, era un adenocarcinoma de la próstata. Se drenó el fluido pleural, y se procedió a practicar una pleurodesis con talco. Este reporte tiene por objetivo describir la ocurrencia de la efusión pleural masiva debido a la metástasis del cáncer de la próstata, y enfatiza el papel que desempeña la biopsia pleural junto a los estudios inmunohistoquímicos a la hora de caracterizar este diagnóstico.

Uso de toracotomía mínima ampliada y lavado de cavidad pleural en el tratamiento del empiema / Using minimal thoracotomy enlarged cavity lavage in treating pleural empyema

El empiema se define como la acumulación patológica de líquido en el espacio pleural y es el resultado de un desequilibrio entre la formación y la reabsorción de líquido a este nivel, causado por neumonías. Evaluar el uso de la toracotomía mínima ampliada y lavado de la cavidad pleural en el tratamiento del empiema, en los pacientes que asistieron al Hospital Universitario de Caracas entre enero de 2007 y Noviembre de 2008. 20 pacientes (12 varones, 8 hembras), con edades comprendidas entre 2 y 9 años fueron tratados por presentar Neumonía complicada con Empiema. La Toracotomía mínima convencional fue realizada en 11 pacientes (5 varones, 6 hembras) y la Toracotomía mínima ampliada y lavado de cavidad pleural fue realizada en 9 pacientes (7 varones, 2 hembras). El tiempo promedio de hospitalización fue de 23,3 días en el grupo control y 23,9 días en el grupo muestra. El tiempo promedio del postoperatorio en el grupo control fue de 7,1 días y 5,9 días en el grupo de casos. Las complicaciones fueron tres en el grupo control, dos requirieron Toracotomía más decorticación, y segmentectomía del lóbulo medio adicional en uno; el grupo muestra no ameritó la realización de procedimiento quirúrgico adicional. El uso de la toracotomía mínima ampliada mas lavado de la cavidad pleural en los pacientes con empiema en etapa temprana; es una opción accesible y útil en aquellos centros en los que no se cuenta con toracoscopio para la realización de la misma, y por ende no requiere realizar decorticaciones o segmentectomias

Empyema is defined as abnormal accumulation of fluid in the pleural space and is the result of an imbalance between formation and resorption of fluid at this level, caused by pneumonia. Our goal is to evaluate the use of extended minimal thoracotomy and pleural lavage in the treatment of empyema in patients attending the Hospital Universitario de Caracas. In total 20 patients (12 males and 8 females), aged between 2 and 9 years were treated for pneumonia complicated with empyema. The conventional minimum Thoracotomy was performed in 11 patients (5 males and 6 females) and the expanded minimum Thoracotomy and pleural cavity lavage was performed in 9 patients (7 males and 2 females). The average length of hospital stay was 23.2 days in the control group and 23. 8 days in the sample group shows no difference from a statistical standpoint. The average time post-procedure hospitalization in the control group was 7 days and 5.8 days in group shows no significant differences. Complications were 3 in the control group, requiring more Thoracotomy and decortication in two cases and middle lobe segmentectomy in another, while in the sample group does not warrant the performance of additional surgical procedure, statistically significant differences exist. We conclude that the use of minimal thoracotomy extended more of the pleural lavage in patients with early-stage empyema, is a useful and accessible option, since it may avoid making decortications or segmentectomy.

Medical thoracoscopy for undiagnosed pleural effusions: Experience from a tertiary care hospital in north India.

Background and Aims. Medical thoracoscopy, also called pleuroscopy, has received renewed interest in the recent past for diagnostic as well as therapeutic uses. In this study, we describe our experience with thoracoscopy for undiagnosed pleural effusions. Methods. In a retrospective analysis of thoracoscopic procedures we performed between January 2007 and December 2008, yield of thoracoscopic pleural biopsy for achieving a diagnosis in undiagnosed pleural effusions, defined as pleural effusions with adenosine deaminase (ADA) levels less than 70 IU/L and negative pleural fluid cytology for malignancy on three occasions was evaluated. Complications of thoracoscopy were also analysed. Results. Overall diagnostic yield of thoracoscopic pleural biopsy was 74.3% in patients with undiagnosed pleural effusions. Pleural malignancy was diagnosed in 48.6% of patients. There was only one case of mesothelioma and the rest were due to pleural metastasis. Lung cancer and breast cancer were the most common sites of primary malignancy. Tuberculosis was diagnosed with pleural biopsy in 22.8% of patients. We had low complication rate after thoracoscopy. Only two cases of empyema were observed. Conclusion. Medical thoracoscopy is a safe procedure and has good diagnostic yield in patients with undiagnosed pleural effusions.

Conduta para diagnóstico da causa da síndrome do derrame pleural / Conduct for diagnosis of syndrome of pleural effusion cause

O derrame pleural é síndrome clínica que pode acompanhar diversas doenças, quer primárias da pleura, quer secundárias a lesões do parênquima pulmonar ou a enfermidades sistêmicas. A literatura mundial ainda relata que entre 11% e 20% dos casos a causa da síndrome do derrame pleural fica sem ser estabelecida. O diagnóstico sindrômico e etiológico deve seguir critérios e roteiros padronizados para o diagnóstico da causa e o tratamento adequado.

Pleural effusion is a clinical syndrome that may accompany various diseases, either primary of the pleura, or secondary to parenchymal lesions or systemic illnesses. The literature also reports that between 11% and 20% of cases the cause of the syndrome of pleural effusion is not being established. The syndromic diagnosis and etiologic and scripts should follow standard cirteria for diagnosing the cause and proper treatment.

Disnea y derrame pleural izquierdo masivo como forma de presentación de la disección de la aorta descendente / Dyspnea and left pleural effusion as a dissection of the thoracic aorta

Se presenta el caso de un paciente que acudió a urgencias por disnea intensa. La historia clínica, la situación de bajo gasto cardíaco y el derrame pleural masivo serohemático llevaron a la sospecha de disección aórtica.

Effect of continuous positive airway pressure on fluid absorption among patients with pleural effusion due to tuberculosis / Efeito da pressão positiva nas vias aéreas sobre a absorção do derrame pleural em pacientes devido à tuberculose

BACKGROUND: Tuberculosis (TB) remains as an important public health problem worldwide. The most common type is pulmonary TB, and the most prevalent form of extra-pulmonary disease among HIV-negative patients is pleural disease. OBJECTIVE: The objective of the present study was to determine the effect of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) on fluid absorption among patients with pleural effusion due to TB. METHODS: Twenty patients were randomized into two groups. The interventional group (n=10) received CPAP three times a week during the initial four weeks of anti-TB treatment, and the control group (n=10) received anti-TB drugs only. The primary endpoint was the volume of pleural fluid after four weeks of treatment. Both groups were submitted to thoracic computed tomography using three-dimensional image reconstruction. The Mann-Whitney test for independent samples and the Wilcoxon paired samples test were used for statistical analysis. The normal distribution samples were analyzed using the unpaired t test. RESULTS: The reduction of pleural effusion volume was significantly greater in the intervention group (83.5 percent±SD 3.6) than in the control group (36.9 percent±SD 2.9; p<0.001), and the final dyspnea index was lower in the Intervention group than in the control group (p=0.002). CONCLUSION: Our findings indicate that CPAP during the first month of TB treatment accelerates the absorption of pleural effusion, however, additional studies are needed to confirm these findings and evaluate the impact of CPAP on pleural sequelae after the end of anti-TB treatment.

CONTEXTUALIZAÇÃO: A tuberculose (TB) permanece como um importante problema de saúde pública no mundo. A forma mais comum de apresentação é a pulmonar e, em pacientes soronegativos, a forma de doença extrapulmonar mais prevalente é a pleural. OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar o efeito da pressão positiva contínua em vias aéreas (CPAP) na absorção do derrame pleural em pacientes com tuberculose. MÉTODOS: Vinte pacientes foram randomizados em dois grupos. O grupo intervenção (n=10) recebeu CPAP três vezes por semana durante as quatro primeiras semanas do tratamento anti-TB, e o grupo controle (n=10) recebeu somente droga anti-TB. O ponto final de avaliação foi o volume de líquido pleural após quatro semanas de tratamento. Ambos os grupos foram submetidos à tomografia computadorizada, usando a reconstrução tridimensional (3D) da imagem. A análise estatística foi realizada por meio do teste de Mann-Whitney para amostras independentes e Wilcoxon para amostras pareadas, e as que apresentaram distribuição normal foram analisadas por meio do teste t de Student não pareado. RESULTADOS: A redução do volume de derrame pleural foi significativamente maior no grupo intervenção (83,5 por cento±DP 3,6) que no grupo controle (36,9 por cento±DP 2,9) (p<0,001), e o índice de dispnéia final foi menor no grupo CPAP que no grupo controle (p=0,002). CONCLUSÃO: Tais achados indicam que a CPAP, durante o primeiro mês de tratamento anti-TB, acelera a absorção do derrame pleural, no entanto estudos adicionais são necessários para confirmar estes achados e avaliar o impacto da CPAP na sequela pleural após o término do tratamento anti-TB.

Ambulatory chest drainage.

Chest drainage is usually performed using the underwater drain consisting of re-usable glass units attached to the intercostal tube. Ambulatory chest drainage devices that use a mechanical one-way valve are an alternative to the traditional underwater drain. These devices consist of the flutter valve, flutter bags, chest seals and stoma bags. They are less bulky and allow the patient to be ambulatory, thus, reducing the risk of complications from immobility. Recent evidence shows that the ambulatory devices may be safe and effective for treatment of both pneumothorax and pleural effusion and even in out-patient care.

Early evacuation of posttraumatic clotted hemothorax or retained pleural fluid: result of vats versus conventional thoracotomy

To compare the outcome of VATS versus conventional thoracotomy in the early evacuation of posttraumatic clotted hemaothorax or retained pleural fluid in patients with chest trauma after failure of the initial management with tube thoracostomy. Between January 2001 and December 2005, fifty-four patients with posttraumatic clotted hemothorax or retained pleural fluid were included in this study. They were claimed to have clotted hemothorax or retained pleural fluid after 3 to 5 days posttruama by chest roentgenogram and chest CT. The patients were divided into 2 groups, group I [VATS group] and group II [thoracotomy group]. Group I patients [VATS group] included 23 patients, VATS was performed for evacuation of posttraumatic clotted hemaothorax or retained pleural fluid. Group II patients [thoracotomy group] included 31 patients; conventional thoracotomy was performed for management of posttraumatic clotted hemothorax. There was no statistical significant difference between the mean ages of both groups, as the mean age of the VATS group patients was 33 +/- 8 years, while it was 32.7 +/- 7 years for the thoracotomy group patients. The mean preoperative ICT period was [6 +/- 1.5 days VS 7 +/- 2 days respectively]. It was statistically non-significant There was statistical significant difference [P-value