Abstract

Hydrothorax is a medical condition confirmed by the collection of fluid in the pleural cavity, the space between the lungs and the chest wall. In this chapter, we will deal with the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options for hydrothorax, furnishing a comprehensive understanding of this condition from a medical point of view. Pleural effusion is categorized into treansdudative pleural effusion and exudative pleural effusion. Transudative pleural effusion is nothing but the collection of a clear fluid in the pleural space , which is the space between the lungs and the chest wall. It is chartacterized by a low protein content and a low lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). The transudative pleural effusion is diagnosed by analyzing the fluid collected through thoracocentesis. It is treated by medications diuretics particularly in congestive heart failure (CHF). Exudative effusion is related to the collection of fluid in body cavities namely pleuralk, peritoneal or pericardial space, which consists of a more protein content a greater number oif inflammatory cells compare to transudative effusion. Exudative effusion is diagnosed by imaging studies ( chest X-ray and ultrasound) and analysis of fluid obtained through thoracocentesis, paracentesis or pericardiocentesis. An exudative effusion is treated bywith the help of antibiotics for infection, anti inflammatory medication for auto immune diseases or chemotherapy for malignancies.

Description