Pleural Effusion

Question 1

pleural effusion causes
1. dullnses
2. hyperresonance

Answer 1

dullness on percussion

Question 2

what is light’s criteria

Answer 2

1. pleural protein/ serum protein >0.5
2. pleural LD/ serum LD >0.6
3. Pleural LDH > 2/3 ULN of serum LDH

yes to any = exudative

Question 3

what is an exudative PE? what are the causes?

Answer 3

issue ot the pleura = protein gets through
infection, inflam, malignancy, hemorrhage

Question 4

what is a transudative PE? what are the causes?

Answer 4

protein poor fluids move due to increased hydrostatic or decreased oncotic pressure

HF –> increased hydrostatic
liver and kidney failure = decreased oncotic (low albumin <35)

Question 5

where should the needle/ catheter be inserted to decompress a pulmonary effusion

Answer 5

right above rib (avoid neurovasc bundle right under rib)