Pleural Diseases

Pleural diseases are conditions that affect the pleura, the tissue that lines the lungs and chest wall.

Types of pleural diseases

• Pleurisy: Inflammation of the pleura that causes sharp chest pain when breathing.
• Pleural effusion: Excess fluid in the pleural space that can push against the lung.
• Pneumothorax: Air or gas builds up in the pleural space.
• Hemothorax: Blood builds up in the pleural space.
• Empyema: Pus builds up in the pleural space, usually associated with pneumonia.
• Pleural tumors: Malignant or benign tumors that arise from the pleura or spread to it from elsewhere in the body.

Symptoms of pleural disorders

• Shortness of breath
• A cough
• Fever and chills
• Rapid, shallow breathing
• Unexplained weight loss
• Sore throat that is followed by joint swelling and soreness

Causes of pleural disorders

• Viral, bacterial, and fungal infections
• Lung cancer
• Other lung diseases, such as sarcoidosis, asbestosis, and mesothelioma
• Pulmonary embolism
• Familial Mediterranean fever
• Parasites
• Heart surgery
• Chest injury (trauma)
• Reaction to certain medications

Treatment

Treatment focuses on removing fluid, air, or blood from the pleural space, relieving symptoms, and treating the underlying condition.

Complications

If left untreated, pleural disorders can lead to serious problems, including complete collapse of the lung, shock, and sepsis.