Mid-term Follow-up of Neonatal Pleural Effusion.

Objectives: To investigate the clinical course and mid-term prognosis of neonates admitted with pleural effusion. Methods: Case records of 38 neonates admitted with pleural effusion were retrieved and analyzed. Results: 16 (42%) patients had congenital and 22 (58%) patients had acquired causes of pleural effusion. The most common causes of congenital pleural effusion and acquired pleural effusion were chylothorax (18%) and congestive heart failure (13%), respectively. Poorer outcome was observed with fetal hydrops, preterm birth (<34 weeks) and associated defects. Conclusions: Most of the neonates with pleural effusion have good outcome in the mid-term follow-up.