The various treatments are focused on removing the fluids either directly or indirectly.
The article describes the symptoms and causes of malignant pleural effusion, including how it is diagnosed and treated.
It also explains the impact malignant pleural infusion has on survival.
Verywell / Cindy Chung
What Are the Characteristics of Malignant Pleural Effusion?
The symptoms of malignant pleural effusion vary by the extent of fluid infiltration.
The effusion may be large and diffuse or involve a small portion of the pleural space.
The condition can also be bilateral (affecting both lungs) or unilateral (affecting only one lung).
Almost all metastatic cancers can invade the pleura and cause a malignant pleura effusion.
Malignant pleural effusion most often occurs with advancedstage 4 (metastatic) cancer.
Similarly, pleural effusion can occur at any stage of lymphoma.
If your doctor suspects a malignant pleural effusion, the next step is usually a thoracentesis.
This fluid is then examined under a microscope to see if cancer cells are present.
If a thoracentesis cannot be done, or if the results are inconclusive, apleuroscopymay be ordered.
How Is Malignant Pleural Effusion Treated?
While effective, effusions frequently return and often require retreatment to keep the fluids under control.
Pleurodesis
Another procedure that works in roughly 60% to 90% of cases ispleurodesis.
The complications of pleurodesis are similar to those of thoracentesis.
The end of the tube is attached to a replaceable vacuum container that draws out and collects the fluid.
An IPC is effective if the effusion is bilateral or there are large volumes of fluid.
The procedure is often considered less invasive than pleurodesis and is effective in over 80% of cases.
Many researchers feel that IPCs should be the first-line option for all people with malignant pleural effusion.
An IPC may cause infection in less than 5% of users.
A larger concern is the long-term risk of metastasis sparked by the spread of cancer cells via the catheter.
Is Treatment Always Needed?
How Long Can Someone Live With Malignant Pleural Effusion?
The occurrence of malignant pleural effusion is generally a sign of poorer outcomes.
It most often occurs with advanced stage 4 cancer, including lung and breast cancer.
Symptoms include shortness of breath and chest pain or pressure.
Malignant pleural effusion is usually a sign of a poorer outcome and shortened life expectancy.
2017;9(Suppl 10):S1111S1122.
2016;2016(5):CD010529.
2016;23(6):e1300-e1306.
