Introduction

Pleural effusions are a common finding in clinical practice that has a large variety of causes and treatment options. Knowledge of pathophysiological principles in pleural effusions helps drive a better understanding of the management of said pleural effusions, including investigations and further considerations.

• It requires 20 minutes preparation.

• It can be taught in 45mins - 1 hour

Preparation materials: Power point slides, learning curriculum

Teaching approach

As with all modules, familiarise yourself with the NPMT principles.

The session aims to:

• Aim 1: Identify the causes of a pleural collections including effusion, empyema, haemothorax and chylothorax

• Aim 2: Relate development of pleural effusions to underlying pathophysiology

• Aim 3: To propose appropriate investigations including explaining how to differentiate transudative from exudative causes of effusion

• Aim 4: Be able to interpret Chest X-ray findings that are consistent with a pleural effusion

• Aim 5: Briefly explain management options for first time and recurrent pleural effusions

Download Resources:

• Curriculum pack

• PowerPoint

Other Resources

• British Thoracic Society Guidelines on pleural disease: https://www.brit-thoracic.org.uk/quality-improvement/guidelines/pleural-disease/

• Radiopedia images for pleural effusions: https://radiopaedia.org/articles/pleural-effusion