MALIGNANT PLEURAL EFFUSION

Abstract

Cancer of the pleural space can be primary (mesothelioma) or secondary. Secondary malignancy is more common and is due to metastatic spread of a malignancy to the pleura1. Malignant disease of the pleura is the second leading cause of an exudative effusion after parapneumonic effusions in the western world but in endemic regions like Pakistan tuberculosis remains the most frequent cause2. Although malignant pleural disease may exist without a pleural effusion, effusions are found in 55% to 60% of cases.